4 Housing Challenges Faced by Somali Refugees in the US

Somali refugees in Ohio have been struggling on many fronts to resettle in their new country. These include inadequate access to proper education, lack of job opportunities, financial crunch, and more. However, one of the major problems faced by this community is the challenge to find proper housing.

Aerial view of rooftops.


Do you want to learn more about the housing challenges Somali refugees face in Central Ohio and nearby areas? Here are four main housing challenges they face and what you can do to help them.

Lack of Understanding

Housing becomes a challenge for Somali refugees because they have little to no understanding of the local housing laws. As a result, they fail to comply with the state renting requirements and are unable to secure proper housing.

Limited Space

Most Somali families are unable to find spacious properties to accommodate their families. Moreover, homeowners are often reluctant to rent their places to refugees. Additionally, it also becomes difficult to find adequate housing for families with the limited budget that they have.

Somali family picture


Language Barrier

Somali refugees generally have trouble understanding English. As a result, they find it difficult to integrate into a new society. They also face problems in communicating with homeowners and end up misunderstanding the local housing regulations.

Frequent Evictions

Even if they can secure housing, they might get evicted due to non-compliance with state regulation. Frequent evictions are not only frustrating for them, but also force refugees to settle for subpar housing.

Support Somali Community in Ohio

With over 75,000 Somali refugees living in different parts of Ohio, the community always needs support. Once their housing and shelter issues are sorted, they can grow, prosper, and become contributing members of society.

Somali Community Link is a non-profit organization that helps Somali refugees in Ohio become socially integrated and have a better quality of life in the new country.

The company was founded to facilitate the rehabilitation process of Somalis and help them resettle in the US. Their Somali community resettlement services include housing needs for Somali community, education funding, and legal advisory.

Visit their website to volunteer or donate to this cause.

 

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