Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants - Stamford, CT
Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI) is a historic statewide nonprofit offering compassionate legal, social, and economic services to immigrants, refugees, and survivors of human trafficking in Stamford, Connecticut. Founded in 1918, CIRI empowers new Americans to overcome barriers and successfully integrate into their communities.
Over a Century of Welcoming New Americans to Connecticut
For more than one hundred years, the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI) has stood as a beacon of hope and opportunity for individuals seeking a safer, better life in the United States. Originally established in 1918, CIRI has dedicated its mission to helping immigrants, refugees, unaccompanied minors, and survivors of serious crimes successfully navigate the complex legal and social frameworks of America. Operating from its Stamford office on Woodland Avenue, as well as locations in Bridgeport and Hartford, CIRI provides essential low-cost legal immigration services and comprehensive support programs that foster self-sufficiency and community integration. If you are looking to find an immigration lawyer or need help navigating your path to legal status, CIRI is here to offer expert guidance.
Affordable Legal Immigration Services
Navigating the United States citizenship and immigration services (USCIS) system can be extremely challenging and financially prohibitive for low-income families. As a Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) recognized organization, CIRI provides high-quality, affordable legal aid to those who need it most. Our team of experienced immigration attorneys, Department of Justice (DOJ) accredited representatives, and legal counselors help families achieve security and permanent status. We assist with family-based petitions, adjustment of status, consular processing, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) renewals, and temporary protected status (TPS). Those in need can hire an immigration advocate at CIRI to prepare and submit applications with precision and care.
Specialized Support for Survivors of Crime and Torture
CIRI is deeply committed to protecting the most vulnerable populations, including foreign-born survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, and state-sponsored torture. Through our Project Rescue initiative and Survivor Services program, we provide trauma-informed, comprehensive assistance that addresses both the legal and emotional needs of survivors. We help eligible individuals secure humanitarian visas, such as T visas for trafficking victims, U visas for victims of crime, and protections under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). By integrating legal representation with specialized social services, we help survivors heal, regain their independence, and build stable, productive lives in Connecticut.
Pathways to Citizenship and Economic Empowerment
Achieving United States citizenship is a life-changing milestone that unlocks new civic, social, and economic opportunities. CIRI guides applicants through every phase of the naturalization process, providing expert assistance with the N-400 application, citizenship interview preparation, and civics education. Additionally, our economic empowerment program helps new Americans overcome language and professional barriers. We offer workforce readiness training, job placement services, and targeted micro-lending to help individuals find stable employment and achieve financial independence. Our goal is to ensure that immigrants are not just settling in Stamford, but truly thriving.
Why Choose CIRI for Immigration Services?
- DOJ and BIA Recognition: Trust a legally recognized organization authorized by the federal government to represent clients in immigration matters.
- Bilingual Counsel: Our diverse staff provides multilingual services, including support in English, Spanish, French, Ukrainian, and Russian, to ensure clear communication.
- Low-Cost Solutions: Benefit from high-quality legal immigration assistance designed to be affordable for low-income families and individuals.
- Holistic Programs: Access a complete ecosystem of support, including legal representation, social services, job placement, and English classes.
Securing your legal status and building a future in Stamford, CT starts with a trusted advisor. If you require professional immigration counsel or need an advocate to assist you with your naturalization journey, contact the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants today to learn more about our services.
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!
Location & Access
Primary Address
Located in the vibrant and culturally diverse South End neighborhood of Stamford, situated near the harbor area.
Building Location
Housed inside the Lathon Wider Community Center, a key civic facility in Stamford's South End that also hosts a local health clinic and a branch of the Ferguson Library. It is located near New Jerusalem Church and Unnamed park.
Parking Details
Free parking is available for visitors in the private on-site surface parking lot at the rear of the building.
Public Transit
Served by CTtransit Stamford Route 326 (Pacific St); nearest stop is at Woodland Ave @ Pacific St.
Accessibility / Suite Access
Enter the newly renovated Lathon Wider Community Center through the main entrance on Woodland Avenue. Proceed into the lobby to find the Stamford office of the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants on the ground floor.