Center for Southeast Asians (CSEA)
Welcome to the Center for Southeast Asians (CSEA) – 501(c)3 nonprofit organization headquartered in Providence, Rhode Island. We have been supporting refugees and immigrants from Southeast Asia through a wide range of social service and community development programs since 1987. Over the years, the Center has expanded its reach to also serve newcomers from other parts of the world as well as any low-income residents of Providence’s Elmwood neighborhood who turn to CSEA for assistance.
Our benefits assistance goes beyond just enrolling clients—it’s about empowerment, stability and long term self sufficiency. As a trusted non profit and social services organization we provide culturally and linguistically responsive translator service and interpreting through our International Language Bank, 24/7 in over 30 languages. Through health insurance navigation, benefits enrollment, and SNAP and Medicaid outreach our certified navigators help families get the resources they need Non Profit Data. We also offer free tax preparation through our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, English as a second language classes, and small business support .
By providing these services for free CSEA bridges the gaps faced by refugees, immigrants and low income communities so everyone has equal access to opportunity. Every donation goes directly to our programs, whether free tax preparation, case management or benefits assistance. Together we create a space where multilingual support, educational growth, economic development and health coverage navigation come together to uplift families and build resilience across generations.
Serving the Southeast Asian Community
A big part of living in any country, and especially one that isn’t your native country, is learning about the culture and daily living skills, like speaking the language. At the CSEA, we understand that overcoming basic barriers can be an important first step in getting established in your new home.
The ability to speak fluently will also impact other areas of your life, such as job and educational opportunities. The good news is that our experienced and friendly staff at the CSEA offer a variety of programs and services that can help, including:
- Translator Services
- Free Tax Preparation
- Interpreting Services
- Job Training
- English Classes
- Health Insurance Navigation
- And more
Getting started in a new country and a new place is never easy, but we can help to make it easier. There are also many programs available that you can inquire about through our benefits enrollment services. This will help you to obtain any benefits assistance programs you might qualify for as a member of the Southeast Asian community.