After an arduous and dangerous journey to the United States, many asylum seekers are being sent to New York City by bus by the governor of Texas. As a sanctuary city, New York has long been a welcoming home for those seeking refuge. However, our city and its institutions were not yet prepared for the influx arriving daily. In response, many nonprofits have stepped up to care for our newest neighbors who arrive in need of support and who have little to no network to reach out to.
As an organization with a vested interest in Immigrant Rights, we want to bring to your attention some local nonprofits who are rising to the challenge. We are sharing below a short list of a few key organizations we partner with that are aiding these families, as well as brief summaries of the services they’re providing. You may also find more information regarding the local response from our grantee partner Documented, an investigative news platform that covers immigrant stories.
As Brooklynites, we know that we can rely on our communities to take care of each other in times of crisis — and we're proud to partner with the following organizations who are supporting asylum seekers at this critical time.
Make the Road NY is in daily communication with high-level staff at the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) who are keeping them informed as they obtain information about arriving buses. Make the Road staff greet new arrivals at Port Authority with some or all of the following items: Metrocards, pre-paid phones/phone cards, cash for meals or other essentials, as well as information about their services (legal support, food pantry, health access services, adult education classes, youth programs, etc.)
The Mexican Coalition is providing food, clothing and some PPE to new arrivals. They also provide orientation to legal processes on immigration topics, begin enrollments in NYC Care - access to health care program, as well as referrals to several other resources based on the presenting needs of the family.
Mixteca has been receiving asylum seekers for several months and providing a full package of services. These services include emergency assistance (fresh food, hot meals, transportation, diapers, clothing, etc.), direct services (KYR information, navigation of City resources and support with applications to NYC care, IDNYC, and Fare fares), appointments for consular ID; eEmotional counseling; and lLegal referrals.
New York Immigration Coalition has launched a successful rapid response campaign to make the City expand emergency shelter, create a welcoming center, and provide support to CBO's to meet this moment. NYIC staff and members have also welcomed asylum seekers from 15 buses thus far and distributed over 700 care packages(PPE, snacks, service guides, and basic essentials). They have helped coordinate the Welcome Center at Port Authority, including helping new arrivals find shelters, get to their actual destinations in NY or out of the state, and other support.
Workers Justice Project provides job referrals, connects arrivals with shelters, and assists many with completing the 40 hours of health and safety requirement training to enter the construction industry.
