Louisiana Resources
To find out about key benefits and services in Louisiana and how to apply, select from the topics below.
Key State Contacts
Amber Hebert
Phone: (225) 376-6807
Michael Lacassagne
Phone: (504) 568-5015
- State Refugee Medical Assistance Manager
Phone: (225) 502-4149
Local Resettlement Agencies
Cash & Food Assistance
- Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA)
Cash assistance available to residents who enter the U.S. under humanitarian protection with low incomes
RCA is administered through local resettlement agencies. Please visit one of the three sites in the state.
Federal nutrition program
Cash assistance designed to help low-income families achieve self-sufficiency. In Louisiana, the program is called FITAP (Family Independence Temporary Assistance Program).
A program provides monthly payments to adults and children with a disability or blindness who have income and resources below specific financial limits. SSI payments are also made to people age 65 and older without disabilities who meet the financial qualifications.
A program offering supplemental foods, health care referrals, and nutrition information to low-income women who are pregnant or have children aged birth to five
To support all families in accessing high quality childcare, the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) provides financial assistance to low-income families while they are working or attending school.
Refugee & Newcomer Health
Catholic Charities of Baton Rouge – all areas of the state except the New Orleans Area
Only the New Orleans area and surrounding parishes
Lafayette, LA and surrounding areas
Accessing Health Care
Apply online or over the phone via the Louisiana Department of Health.
Seniors
Medicare is health insurance for people 65 or older. You’re first eligible to sign up for Medicare 3 months before you turn 65.
1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)
The Social Security program in the United States provides protection against the loss of earnings due to retirement, death, or disability.
Assistance with Housing Costs
Helps residents maintain housing stability
Call 211 (24/7) to speak to a Community Resource Specialist
Housing Counseling
HUD sponsors housing counseling agencies throughout the country to provide free or low-cost advice.
Phone: 800-569-4287
Employment
The Matching Grant program helps refugees and other ORR-eligible populations overcome barriers and quickly find jobs. The intent is for refugees to become economically self-sufficient through employment within 240 days and without accessing cash assistance programs.
Documentation
Information and resources about obtaining a driver’s license or state ID