Plus, share your insights in the first annual housing needs assessment survey of FY 2026.
Second FY 2025 Annual Housing Needs Assessment Report Now Available
The latest Enhancing Refugee Housing Solutions Annual Housing Needs Assessment Report, which surveyed stakeholders serving ORR-eligible populations on housing challenges in FY 2025, is available online now.
This survey was conducted by Refugee Housing Solutions in June 2025 as the second annual needs assessment for FY 2025. It followed a survey of the resettlement network conducted in December 2024, the results of which can be found in a published report here.
The results of these two surveys provide comprehensive measurable insights to equip key stakeholders with data to optimize services, guide strategic partnerships, ensure effective and efficient use of funds, and implement solutions. In turn, these insights will be used to enhance housing stability and self-sufficiency for ORR-eligible populations as they become part of thriving U.S. communities.
What's next?
RHS continues its commitment to evidence-based programming and is currently conducting the first FY 2026 annual housing needs assessment survey, targeting the resettlement network and/or organizations serving ORR-eligible populations to understand housing trends among those they serve. The survey is open now until December 31, 2025 and is designed to take 10-15 minutes to complete.
By participating in this survey, you contribute to a greater understanding of housing issues faced by refugee populations, which can lead to improved solutions and practices that benefit organizations and the individuals they serve.
Thank you for your time and valuable insights!
The term "ORR-eligible populations" refers to individuals who are eligible to receive services and benefits administered by the U.S. Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR). Eligibility is determined by Congress, and exact benefits may vary by eligibility category. For a current list of eligible populations, please visit ORR's website.
Seats Still Open in the Housing Expertise and HUD Housing Counseling Exam Prep Course
Registration is still open for Refugee Housing Solutions’ 9-week virtual prep course designed to prepare learners for the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Housing Counseling Certification exam as well as gain additional housing expertise to serve their clients. The course draws from the HUD Office of Housing Counseling’s own Certified Housing Counseling course.
The course begins January 28, 2026 and runs through March 25, 2026, and it is offered 100% online and free of charge. At the end of the course, learners who successfully complete all coursework will be given a certificate of completion.
Continuing to Improve and Expand the Housing Directory Through Community Participation
Now that the Housing Directory interactive map is active across all 50 States and the District of Columbia, RHS is continuing its efforts to further amplify community resources and housing-related services through user submissions and ongoing systematic verification of existing resource listings.
If you have a resource or service provider to add — or suggestions to change a current listing — then use the form below anytime to share them with us:
Featured Resources
This FAQ for HUD Housing Counselors provides a high-level overview on the frequently asked questions HUD Certified Housing Counselors and/or their agencies may have regarding assisting ORR-eligible populations and newcomers.
Get Involved
INCREASING ACCESS TO DIGNIFIED AFFORDABLE HOUSING FOR REFUGEES AND ORR-ELIGIBLE POPULATIONS ACROSS THE UNITED STATES.
RHS endeavors to close gaps in housing challenges through effective and efficient housing support initiatives which strengthen communities’ housing stability and ultimately foster successful integration and prosperity, creating a more connected and thriving nation for all.
Online Housing Courses
Find free learning and certification opportunities in one place on our Learn page, featuring courses on HUD and Newcomer Host Home programs. All courses on this page are 100% online and free of charge.
Become a Trusted Housing Partner
The Trusted Housing Partners pilot program connects housing providers in communities across the U.S. by both educating and equipping them for renting to ORR-eligible populations, and it also provides a platform to host their housing information and availability on the Housing Hub and Directory. To get started, schedule a quick call with our team below.
Looking Ahead
RHS is expanding its partnerships with United Way 211 to increase access to and visibility of key local resources via the Housing Directory. Let us know how we can work with 211 in your state!
New Resource Coming Soon: How Credit Affects Housing in the United States serves as a beginner's guide to understanding how an individual’s credit score affects both applying for, obtaining, and maintaining stable housing. It also explores best practices to establish and continue building good credit.
