By KAREN LEE ZINER Providence Journal Staff Writer

PROVIDENCE - Eight years ago, Frewoine Kassahun arrived in the United States as a refugee from Ethiopia. As a refugee resettlement caseworker for the International Institute of Rhode Island, Kassahun relies on personal experience to help others navigate life in a new country.

This past spring, Kassahun traveled to the Shimelba Refugee Camp in northern Ethiopia, a trip recorded in the documentary film, Home Across Lands, that premiered in Providence last month.

The film chronicles the work of the institute’s staff and volunteers as they guide Kunama refugees from the makeshift camp to their new home in Providence. Kassahun played a critical role as the only speaker of Tigrinya — a language spoken by the Kunama, an Eritrean ethnic minority.

“I was really touched by these people. It was emotional,” says Kassahun of the trip. “We were trying to establish connections” between Kunama in Providence and their family members at the camp — some of whom have either relocated here or will in the near future.

Kassahun currently works primarily with the Kunama, who fled Eritrea in 1998 when war broke out with Ethiopia. Because she speaks Arabic, she also assists Iraqi refugees here.

As part of a team, Kassahun handles at least 100 cases a year. The job entails everything from airport arrivals to housing orientation, how to shop and how the bus system works. Kassahun interprets during benefit applications, school registrations, medical and other emergencies.

“Some are lonely and fragile. Their only family is the International Institute,” says Kassahun. “They have to come and see you every day; you have to check on them.” She is always on call for emergencies.