IMMIGRATION STATUS IS A
SOCIAL DETERMINANT OF HEALTH
Explore our Impact Report by clicking on any of the buttons below.
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OASIS BY THE NUMBERS
An overview of our client demographics, revenue, and spending
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MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Remarks from our Executive Director and Board Chair
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PARTNERING FOR JUSTICE
Interns, volunteers, and pro bono attorneys
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FROM TRAUMA TO TRIUMPH
Empowering queer and trans immigrants
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STRENGTHENING SUPPORT SYSTEMS
Training providers to advocate for queer and trans immigrants
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A NEW ERA OF ACCESS
Free asylum services for low-income LGBTQ+ immigrants
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IMMIGRATION STATUS IS A SOCIAL DETERMINANT OF HEALTH
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FROM ADVOCACY TO ACTION
Securing rights and benefits for LGBTQ+ immigrants
Understanding the intersectionality of our clients’ experiences, we treat immigration status as a Social Determinant of Health (SDoH). Research supports the notion that lack of immigration status can lead to negative health outcomes, and our own client testimonials suggest that undocumented LGBTQ+ immigrants who receive social services support are better equipped to pursue long-term immigration relief. Ensuring that a client’s holistic needs are addressed not only significantly improves immigration legal outcomes, but positively impacts clients’ mental and physical wellbeing.
During their initial intake, 71% of our clients report having no medical insurance, 50% report being “unsatisfied” or “very unsatisfied” with their access to healthcare, and only 25% understand public benefits. Under the leadership of our new Program Director, Eric Cline, our Social Services Program works as quickly as possible to stabilize and improve on these health factors, and our client survey data shows significant improvements in overall wellbeing and health.
In 2024, Oasis became an authorized Medi-Cal enrollment site, increasing and streamlining client access to critical insurance coverage. Through a network of close partner organizations, we connect clients to tailored support services including mental health services, HIV testing and treatment, public benefits programs, emergency housing, eviction defense, and job training. We compile and regularly update our multilingual mental health and HIV resource guides. After working with Oasis, clients report a 120% increase in health insurance coverage and their understanding of public benefits doubles.
Crucial to social services navigation support is our HIV care and prevention work, as one in five of new clients are living with HIV and the rest are all at significant risk of contracting HIV. Our holistic approach provides accessible and sustainable pathways to obtaining HIV care for our clients and spreads community awareness to people who historically face health inequities. When clients come to Oasis, we provide them with an HIV Resource Guide (currently available in English, Spanish, or Portuguese) and connect them to healthcare providers who specialize in working with LGBTQ+ people. Through our intake process, we learn that many LGBTQ+ immigrants have never even been tested for HIV, and only learn about resources and preventative care when they come through our doors.
Recognizing that trusted social connections are key to health and healing, we foster community engagement through cultural events, outreach initiatives, and leadership development. Our Central Valley 'Noches de Cultura' and Pride celebrations in several cities where clients reside creates spaces where LGBTQ+ immigrants can find affirmation and support. In 2024, we welcomed two social services interns from Fresno State University to our Central Valley office for the first time. By integrating legal services, healthcare access, and community-building, we contribute to a broader movement for equity and inclusion for LGBTQ+ immigrants.