Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants – Bridgeport, CT

A Century of Service for Newcomers in Connecticut

Since 1918, the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI) has been a steadfast champion for newcomers, building a profound legacy of compassionate service and effective advocacy. This statewide nonprofit organization, headquartered in Bridgeport, is dedicated to helping refugees, immigrants, survivors of human trafficking and torture, and unaccompanied minors rebuild their lives and thrive in their new communities. CIRI’s mission is to empower these individuals to become self-sufficient, integrated, and contributing members of society. Serving clients from over 90 countries, CIRI provides a comprehensive and high-quality array of legal, social, and educational programs designed to address the unique challenges faced by those starting anew in the United States. Recognized by the Department of Justice, CIRI is a cornerstone of support, providing affordable and professional services to thousands of individuals and families across Connecticut each year.

Comprehensive Immigration Legal Services

CIRI’s Immigration Legal Services program is a critical component of its mission, offering affordable and expert legal assistance to low-income immigrants and their families. The program is staffed by experienced immigration attorneys and Department of Justice (DOJ) accredited representatives who are committed to not only representing clients but also empowering them with a clear understanding of their legal rights and options. With offices in Bridgeport, Stamford, Hartford, Waterbury, and New Haven, these vital services are accessible to communities across the state.

• Family Immigration Lawyers: The firm assists with a wide range of family-based petitions and adjustment of status applications, helping to reunite families and provide them with a stable foundation in the U.S.
• Deportation Defense Lawyers: CIRI provides robust representation in removal proceedings before the immigration court, fighting for clients facing deportation and exploring all available forms of relief, such as cancellation of removal.
• Citizenship Lawyers: The legal team guides lawful permanent residents through the complex naturalization process, from filing applications to preparing for interviews, helping them achieve their dream of U.S. citizenship.
• Humanitarian Relief: A significant focus of CIRI’s work is providing legal protection for vulnerable populations. This includes handling applications for asylum, representing survivors of domestic violence (VAWA), human trafficking, torture, and other serious crimes.
• Unaccompanied Minors: Through its Project Rescue program, CIRI offers specialized case management, advocacy, and immigration legal aid for unaccompanied minors who arrive in Connecticut alone.
• Document Assistance: The team also assists with crucial document renewals and replacements, ensuring clients maintain their legal status without interruption.

A Holistic Approach to Integration

CIRI understands that legal status is just one piece of the puzzle. The organization’s holistic model integrates legal aid with a suite of social and economic support services. The Refugee Services program helps newcomers with everything from finding housing to accessing English classes and employment opportunities, providing critical support for up to five years after their arrival. The Economic Empowerment program focuses on building financial independence through workforce readiness training, job placement services, and financial literacy education. This comprehensive approach ensures that clients not only navigate the legal system successfully but also build a sustainable and prosperous future for themselves and their families.

Your Partner in the Immigration Journey

For over a century, the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants has been a beacon of hope. The organization’s deep commitment to providing affordable, high-quality services makes it an invaluable resource for low-income individuals. By offering confidential consultations, CIRI ensures that every person can understand their legal standing and the potential immigration benefits available to them. They are dedicated to the belief in a just and welcoming world, and they work tirelessly to make that a reality for the thousands they serve each year, guiding them with expertise, compassion, and unwavering support on their path to becoming new Americans.