Brattleboro has welcomed the opening of a new multicultural community center located at 28 Vernon Street, which held its inauguration on January 14. This center is a partnership between the Ethiopian Community Development Council and the Refugee Ministry of Saint Michael’s Episcopal Church, aimed at providing refugee New Vermonters with essential services and support.

The community center is now leasing space from the Brattleboro Museum & Art Center, marking its third location following its previous establishment at the School for International Training. Historically, the center has offered numerous programs such as child care, after-school activities, summer camps, transportation services for children, and English as a Second Language (ESL) classes. The expansion of services now includes health discussions, art-related activities, and career counseling, which were identified as needs through a recent University of Vermont survey targeting the local refugee population.

During the center’s opening event, various organizations set up information tables to present their services to both New Vermonters and potential volunteers. This included the health navigation services provided by ECDC, which focuses on aiding refugees in understanding and accessing the health care system in the United States.

The health navigator emphasized the challenges faced by immigrant refugees, especially regarding their health care encounters, stating that many arrive without knowledge of how the system operates. Preparations are underway to assist those affected by upcoming changes to Medicaid eligibility, following federal adjustments that may impact their benefits beginning in October 2026. ECDC is working closely with the Vermont Department of Health to formulate a plan to offer alternative healthcare options to those in need.

The sewing program, an essential part of the center’s offerings since its inception, was also highlighted at the celebration. This program provides a creative space for New Vermonters to bond, share experiences, and develop skills, particularly valuable for those dealing with trauma. Participants can access a variety of equipment, fostering both artistic expression and social interaction.

The opening comes as a response to the end of transitional housing at the former location due to decreased refugee admissions, influenced by policy changes at the federal level. The limited cap this year is markedly lower than previous years, prompting the need for expanded community services in Brattleboro to support those already settled in the area.

The co-chair of the Saint Michael’s Episcopal Church Refugee Ministry conveyed that the new center will allow for the expansion of programming essential to meet the needs of the community, especially in the face of reduced resources. The church has a long legacy of aiding refugees since early 2021, and efforts are now shifting to provide ongoing support to families already residing in the region in their quest for self-sufficiency.

MCC Manager expressed that while the current location is temporary, the dedication to assist New Vermonters remains strong. She emphasized the importance of community involvement in creating a welcoming environment for individuals from diverse backgrounds. Volunteers and New Vermonters are encouraged to connect with ECDC and the Refugee Ministry for additional support.

A New Vermonter shared that the MCC’s resources have been invaluable in navigating his new life in the United States. He acknowledged the significant help he had received in securing employment and understanding local systems, showcasing the critical role the community center plays in the lives of those transitioning to a new culture.

The center invites both New Vermonters and prospective volunteers to get involved in the ongoing efforts to foster an inclusive and supportive community.