There are tens
and thousands of potential Deferred Action Childhood Arrivals (DACA) beneficiaries
in New York and New Jersey
In August 2012, PATH for DREAMs (Providing Access to Hope)
was implemented by National Federation for Filipino American Associations
(NaFFAA), Filipino American Legal Defense & Education Fund, Inc. (FALDEF)
and the Philippine Consulate General of New York (PCGNY) on August 2012. Since
it’s launching, various Asian American communities have joined in hosting DACA
processing centers that guarantee access to confidential, trustworthy,
knowledgeable, reliable and economical resources.
However, new data released by USCIS revealed that the number
of applicants is decreasing. Due to lack of information, confidence in the
process and insufficient funds to seek legal assistance, many potential DACA
applicants don't come forward to apply.
Potential DACA applicants are also hesitant to come forward, waiting for
the passing of the new immigration reform. PCGNY, NAFFAA, Pilipino American
Unity for Progress (UniPro), FALDEF, and South Asian Bar Association of New
York (SABANY) come together to answer questions and help process applications, free of charge.
As immigration reform is being debated in Congress, PCGNY,
NAFFAA, UniPro, FALDEF and SABANY recommend that DACA-eligible people to apply,
and secure temporary work permit authorization.
One of the successful beneficiaries of PATH for Dreams
program who wished to remain anonymous, said, "The PATH for DREAMS program
helped me in my application process. FALDEF was definitely a great choice in
helping me fill out my application forms for DACA. I'm very blessed to have
found an organization that not only provides pro bono services to assist me in
my situation but also a place where the officers are very understanding,
helpful, friendly, and supportive. Thank you for the great services that you
consistently and graciously provide for the people in need. I would recommend
your services to anyone who needs it."
"Getting my application approved is a great relief, not
just for me but for my family. I can now go to school and get a job." said
another client who received her work permit. " I hope the politicians pass
Amnesty or some comprehensive immigration reform but for now, this is opening
new opportunities."
According to ImmigrationPolicy.org, out of 1.4 Million DACA
eligible immigrants, 8% are Asians and over 100,00 reside in New
York and New Jersey
We are asking the community for help in making announcements
of this free service. If you can help
spread the word, please contact us at legalaid@faldef.org.
Who: PCGNY, NaFFAA, UniPro, FALDEF, and SABANY
What: FREE DACA
application legal clinic. Education Workshops.
Why: To assist in the processing of the DACA applications
and provide the immigrant community guidance on what deferred action is.
When: Friday, June 7, 2013 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Where: Philippine Center, Kalayaan Hall 556 5th Ave. New York , NY 10036