OLGT 2024-14: TAFDC: Temporary Suspension of Pathways to Work Referrals to the Massachusetts Office for Refugees and Immigrants (ORI)-Employment Support Services Program (ESSP) and Comprehensive Refugee Employment Services (CRES)

DTA provides eligible resettled refugees and immigrants with TAFDC Pathways to Work activity referrals to a network of service providers contracted through the Massachusetts Office for Refugees and Immigrants (ORI). ORI administers programs such as the Employment Support Services Program (ESSP) and Comprehensive Refugee Employment Services (CRES) which provide work related assistance to refugees and immigrants within the catchment area of certain Transitional Assistance Offices (TAOs). The recent rise in noncitizen arrivals has subsequently led to a significant increase in referrals to ORI service providers.

Effective immediately referrals to ESSP and CRES must be reserved for clients who have employment authorization at the time of their referral. This change will stay in effect until further notice and will support ORI’s capacity to provide quality services to those who are ready to engage with the workforce.