Many Somalis in Columbus are facing cultural and language barriers that cause difficulties in obtaining both employment and education. Some Somali youth have low academic achievement due to their and their parents’ lack of education in Somalia. Many youth come to the United States with illiterate parents and a 3rd grade education, if any at all. Many refugee families who lack English language skills are unfamiliar with the education system. They look to the staff and volunteers of SCL to help with school enrollment, after-school tutoring and mentoring for their children.

Above average school drop-out and unemployment rates exist among Somali youth 17, 18, 19 and older who were not formally educated in war-torn Somalia or neighboring refugee camps. In the U.S., many are placed in grades with younger students and feel out of place and eventually drop-out. This can easily lead down the wrong path. Some youth are at risk of involvement with alcohol, drugs or gang activity. The SCL, along with our funding partners, promote and provide programs that help create financial independence, a safe haven and positive role models to counteract these negative influences. Students who attend and complete computer literacy classes in the SCL’s computer lab receive certification for Microsoft Office Skills Training, greatly enhancing their opportunity to obtain and retain employment.
Housing presents a special challenge due to large family size, language barriers and lack of understanding of local housing practices. This results in overcrowding, evictions, complaints about fair housing practices and, at times, allegations of corruption. Senior citizens face special challenges and a higher risk of losing health care. Many refugees qualify for special Social Security Income (SSI) as they work toward U.S. citizenship. Those who do not attain citizenship within 7 years risk losing their SSI benefits including medical coverage. This requirement often results in termination of benefits for the elderly, for whom learning a new language, culture and history is an overwhelming task.