Matching Grant (MG) is a federally funded program that helps newcomers to attain economic self-sufficiency within four months after their arrival in the United States. In collaboration with partner agencies, the International Institute of Connecticut provides a wide range of services to help clients find quality job opportunities within their local communities. Clients also benefit from maintenance and cash assistance incentives that help them to locate affordable housing and begin their new life in the United States. Participants in the Match Grant program are all newly arrived refugees and asylees. The program provides intensive customized job search assistance and soft skills job training. It also prepares clients for job interviews, and an IIC caseworker will accompany the client to the interview to interpret when appropriate. If a client is placed, IIC will follow up with employers and employees if needed. IIC also trains employers to increase their understanding of the culture and customs of their employees.
The Match Grant program relies on contributions from the community. For each $1 of cash or in-kind assistance donated to the program and/or its clients, the Federal Government provides a match of nearly $2!
Who is eligible for the MG Program ? **
- Refugees
- Asylees
- Cuban/Haitian Entrants
- Victims of Trafficking
- Amerasians
** Enrollment into the MG Program must be within 31 days of the date of admission for refugees, entrants and Amerasians, or final grant of status for asylees and victims of trafficking.
What services will MG clients receive ?
International Institute of Connecticut will provide in-house:
- Case Management
- Employment Services
- Maintenance and Cash Assistance
- Program Administration
International Institute of Connecticut will help clients access:
- English Language Training (ELT)
- Health and Medical Services
- Employment Training or Recertification Services
- Social Adjustment Services
- Counseling
- Interpretation
- Acculturation Programs
How can an eligible client apply for the MG Program ?
Individuals who believe they are eligible for the MG Program should contact the International Institute of Connecticut as soon as possible. Those who have already accessed public cash assistance may not be eligible. Those who received asylum more than 31 days prior to their application may also be ineligible. Please contact an IIC Matching Grant Program officer at (203) 336 0141, or at matchgrant@iiconn.org
