State officials in New York are providing up to $2 million to smooth the resettlement of Afghan refugees following the U.S. evacuation this summer, Gov. Kathy Hochul on Tuesday said. 

The state's money will be used for programs meant to provide health care and mental health, as well as services for language skills, job training and immigration legal assistance.

"For generations, immigrants have come to New York and the U.S. seeking freedom and opportunity — their contributions defining and strengthening the fabric of our state and nation," Hochul said. "With Afghan evacuees fleeing widespread instability in their own country, New York State is proud to take a leading role in the massive resettlement effort, and with this historic, first-of-its-kind investment, we will connect people with the support they need to flourish in their new home. I also thank President Biden and Governor Markell for their efforts welcoming our friends and allies to our shores."

The money comes on top of $3 million from the New York State Enhanced Services to Refugees Program, and the effort will be administered through the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance at the state level. 

New York is providing assistance to 1,790 people who evacuated from Afghanistan since September and have continued to arrive in the coming months. They will be resettled across New York, including 250 people in Albany, 495 in Buffalo, 190 in the New York City metropolitan area, 50 in Niagara Falls, 275 people in Rochester and 420 evacuees in Syrause.