News

Stories, updates & announcements

ANNOUNCEMENT

SNAP and Food Resources during Federal Government Shutdown

October 27, 2025 – Due to the federal government shutdown, for the month of November, SNAP benefits will not be issued to program participants. We have compiled a list of food resources for Institute clients/students as well as volunteers/community members; we encourage you to share with those in your community who may be looking for extra assistance this month.

For accurate, up to date information on the ongoing federal government shutdown, please visit the State of Minnesota’s Department of Children, Youth and Families’ website.

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More Articles and Resources

Celebrating 35 Years of Medical Careers Training

Aug 13, 2025

Former students, staff and graduates gathered in the Institute’s Hall of Nations to celebrate 35 years of providing life-changing medical career training and career advancement support for New Americans.

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Immigrant Small Business Resource Fair 2025

Aug 11, 2025

Read about our successful, second annual Immigrant Small Business Resource Fair from October 3, 2025.

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Volunteer Spotlight: Michael

Aug 06, 2025

Learn about volunteering for the International Institute of Minnesota in this question and answer series with our dedicated volunteers. Today, meet Michael, a loan officer and housing specialist, who sponsors and volunteer teaches New Americans about homebuying. This essential role helps immigrants learn how to apply for a mortgage and how to buy a home.

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July 2025 Updates

Jul 17, 2025
In this month’s newsletter, you’ll learn about:

Citizenship’s life-changing protection

Afghan client stories of first American jobs

Volunteer opportunities

Birthright citizenship update
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Minnesota Homeownership Center: Network Homeownership Advisors Podcast

Jul 17, 2025

In this episode of the Welcome Home podcast, Bill Gray of the Minnesota Homeownership Center sits down with three of Network Homeownership Advisors, including Institute Financial Coach, Stephen Sengendo to discuss their work in honor of Homeownership Month.

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How an Afghan Couple Found their First American Jobs

Jul 14, 2025

Discover how Vida and Zabihullah, Afghan newcomers to Minnesota, overcame language barriers and cultural challenges to build a new life through support from the International Institute of Minnesota.

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Priyanka and Sarban’s Family Citizenship Story

Jul 01, 2025

Priyanka and Sarban’s family’s path to U.S. citizenship highlights the life-changing benefits of naturalization and how parents can pass it along to their children through derivative citizenship. Their story showcases how support from organizations like the Institute can help eligible immigrants overcome barriers and achieve their dreams of becoming New Americans.

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Q&A on Birthright Citizenship

Jun 27, 2025

We understand that immigrants in Minnesota may have questions about birthright citizenship following the decision by the Supreme Court on June 27. This is what we know currently.

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June 2025 Updates

Jun 20, 2025
In this month’s newsletter, you’ll learn about:

World Refugee Day client story about mentorship

Nursing Assistants Day and the most recent nursing assistant graduates

Seeking sponsorships for Small Business Resource Fair for Immigrants

Current volunteer openings

New Americans Campaign: Make an early gift

Institute denounces travel ban as harmful to refugees and families

Find us at Twin Cities Pride
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