Immigrants who seek certain benefits from United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) cannot access federal welfare programs, at least not until they’re issued green cards after being legal residents for five years. Regardless of their lack of eligibility for federal welfare and assistance programs, these immigrants must contribute to the system through their taxed income, and this is part of the American policy of granting immigration benefits only to individuals who won’t willfully become public charges.
Should foreigners seeking USCIS benefits fall on hard times because of disasters or emergencies, they could apply for federal assistance, but doing so may put them at risk of becoming ineligible for green cards. In these cases, one of the best courses of action is to access community resources, which won’t compromise legal status because they don’t count as federal assistance. The assistance provided by the resources listed below is mostly funded through private advocacy networks and communities.
Immigration Advocates Network
This organization is supported by numerous civil rights organizations concerned about the equitable treatment of immigrants. If you’re already represented by a San Diego immigration lawyer, chances are you won’t need the assistance of this nationwide group because their mission is centered on providing legal help.
League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC)
Even though the name of this group suggests they only focus on promoting the interests of Latinx immigrants, the reality is they stand ready to help all immigrants. The various programs supported by LULAC provide access to healthcare through low-cost clinics, training in English as a second language, emergency housing, and employment leads.
Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS)
As one of the oldest immigration advocacy groups in the world, the HIAS specializes in helping those who seek refuge and asylum. This organization is faith-based, but it provides legal assistance to all foreigners fleeing persecution and crisis situations even if they’re not of the Jewish faith.
Informed Immigrant
This is an online resource that connects immigrants to local community organizations that may be able to help them with issues ranging from mental health and financial assistance to emergency meals and temporary shelter. This Internet directory, which can be queried by zip code, is constantly updated.
Catholic Charities
The Roman Catholic Church has a long history of advocating for the rights of immigrant communities. In the U.S., Catholic churches have provided shelter to vulnerable immigrants who were sought by the so-called “immigration force” that operated during the administration of former President Donald Trump. Catholic Charities is an established organization that will try to help anyone in need, particularly families going through hard times. The group is connected through most Catholic churches across the U.S., but immigrants can also make contact through their website.
Hiring a highly qualified immigration attorney is one of the best ways to make the immigration process less complicated and stressful. If you need reliable, high-quality legal advice about San Diego immigration issues, reach out to the immigration law experts at KS Visa Law. To schedule an appointment, call us today at 858-874-0711.
