One Year After the Pause: The Future of Refugee Resettlement in Southern Nebraska

By Caroline Nebel, Sustainability Associate at Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska

In 2023, I began my work as a case manager with the Refugee Resettlement Program at Catholic Social Services (CSS) in Southern Nebraska. The work quickly became both fulfilling and engaging. Daily tasks ranged from shopping for household supplies and accompanying clients on public transportation to providing budgeting guidance.

A Diverse and Dedicated Team

Our resettlement team of around ten individuals was remarkably diverse, with members born in the United States and countries like Ukraine, Syria, and Burma. Collectively, the team spoke thirteen different languages, often eliminating the necessitate for external translators. While each team member had specific case assignments, collaboration was key – whether it was providing on-the-spot translation or assisting with airport pickups.

The Pause in Resettlement and a Shift in Roles

In January 2025, refugee arrivals were halted due to a change in federal administration. As a federally funded program, CSS’s Refugee Resettlement Program was directly impacted. Seventeen refugees had arrived since the beginning of January 2025, and the future of funding for their 90-day service period became uncertain. Despite the uncertainty, CSS decided to continue providing the required services to its existing clients.

Anticipating the potential closure of the program, CSS proactively planned to retain its refugee team members. I transitioned to roles within the agency’s eCommerce program, managing online sales of high-value donations, assisting with recycling initiatives, and taking shifts at the CSS thrift shop. I as well continued to provide support to some refugee clients as needed.

Leading the Thrift Shop Towards Sustainability

In the fall of 2025, I was tasked with leading the thrift shop through a transition to a volunteer-led model. The goal was to enhance the thrift shop’s sustainability by relying primarily on volunteer support. This involved training and scheduling volunteers, developing standard operating procedures, and reorganizing the store for future success.

Team Members Find Fresh Paths

My former teammates have also successfully transitioned into new roles within CSS. Veronica is now utilizing her case management skills in the St. Gianna Program, while Nadia is contributing to the eCommerce program, significantly increasing sales. Will is involved in volunteer coordination, accounting, and the Prison and Reentry Apostolate program. Poe Dee, the former director of the refugee resettlement program, now serves as the Director of Refugee and Immigrant Services at CSS.

Continued Support for Former Clients

Poe Dee, Albert, and Katie continue to provide support to former refugee clients when necessary. While federal funding no longer supports an official refugee program at CSS, assistance with job applications, rent payments, and emergency food and financial aid remains available. CSS can also connect former clients with additional resources.

Looking Ahead

While I miss working directly with refugees, I am grateful for the experience and the connections I made. I anticipate that the Refugee Resettlement Program will eventually reopen to new arrivals. Until then, CSS remains committed to serving the community in other meaningful ways, guided by its mission to provide “Hope in the Solid Life” and an encounter with Christ.