We learn about the status of asylum seekers who arrived in Portland in June. Many have moved into out of Portland, into host families’ homes or into shelters — with some finding other housing. Most are still dealing with legal delays and paperwork before they can seek asylum status or be able to work. We’ll learn about the logistic and cultural challenges facing asylum seekers, as well as what has gone well so far in their first months in Maine.
Guests
Claude Rwaganje, executive director, Prosperity Maine: The Center for Financial Education
Luc Samuel Kuanzambi, lead cultural navigator, CocoMaine—the Congolese Community of Maine
Keith Rosenberg, host family member for asylum-seeking family
Aaron Geyer (by phone), social services administrator, City of Portland
Felix Hagenimana (by phone), Asylum Outreach Attorney, Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project
Shawn Lambert (by phone), assistant superintendent, Brunswick School District
Wendy Schlotterbeck (by phone), host family member
Resources
- Portland.gov: Support Asylum Seekers
- UN Refugee Agency: DR Congo emergency
- 'It’s Just New People To Bond With' — Maine Host Families And Asylum Seekers Adjust To Life Together
- As Asylum Seekers Relocate Outside Portland, Communities Look To Add Cultural Supports
- Portland Looks For More Host Families For Asylum Seekers, As Deadline To Leave Expo Looms
- Asylum Seekers Leave Expo As Deadline To Vacate Hits
- Hospitality Makes Up For Lack Of Housing For Asylum Seekers In Portland, Maine
- Portland city councilors determine where asylum seeker donation money will go
- When asylum seekers knocked, Brunswick opened its doors
- Brunswick schools setting up language instruction program for asylum seekers
- Supreme Court allows Trump administration to enforce toughest restriction yet on asylum requests