For many immigrants, coming to the United States can mean hope and a chance to build a better life for themselves and their families. But the journey can also be filled with fear, uncertainty, and challenges that are
difficult to navigate alone. Diego* understands this reality deeply.
He arrived from Chiapas, Mexico, in 2018 after being recruited by traffickers who promised him legitimate employment and assistance applying for a work visa. Believing he would be able to support his family, he left behind his wife and two young children and made the difficult journey north. But when he arrived in the United States, he was told there was no job. His family in Mexico was then extorted for his release, and Diego was threatened, leaving him too fearful to return home.
Trying to rebuild his life, he found work in construction. But the trauma he had endured, combined with complications related to his immigration status, left him vulnerable and unsure of where to turn. After a frightening encounter with ICE on his way to work, Diego reached out to Catholic Charities Southwestern Ohio for help.
He was connected with our Immigration Legal Services program, which provides immigrants with representation and guidance as they navigate the complex and ever-changing immigration system.
Elizabeth Clapp, Director of Catholic Charities’ Immigration Legal Services program, understands why so many immigrants feel overwhelmed. “Not only is immigration law extremely complex but immigration policies and regulations frequently change. It can be difficult for lawyers to understand, let alone migrants who come from other cultures and don’t speak English as a first language,” she explains. “The system has become increasingly difficult for immigrants.”
Last year, our Immigration Legal Services team worked closely with Diego to address his situation. Because he had been deceived, exploited, and threatened by traffickers, he qualified to apply for a T visa, a form of immigration relief available to victims of severe human trafficking who are working toward safety and stability. With support from Catholic Charities, Diego says he now feels hopeful, supported, and far more secure about his future.
Diego is one of nearly two thousand meaningfully helped through Catholic Charities’ Immigration Legal Services. The team also processed 320 green card applications and naturalizations, empowering clients towards legal permanent residency as well as 227 employment authorizations, 30 Deferred Action for Childhood arrivals and 21 asylum cases.
While our Immigration Legal Services play a vital role in helping newcomers navigate legal challenges, they are only one part of the comprehensive support Catholic Charities offers to migrants and refugees. Through Education Services, adults access ESOL and digital literacy classes that build the language and workforce skills needed for daily life and long-term integration.
Refugee Support Services welcomes individuals and families fleeing war, violence, and persecution, accompanying them as they rebuild their lives and work toward self-sufficiency. And at Su Casa Hispanic Center, Hispanic/Latino families across the tri-state region receive culturally responsive support. This includes emergency assistance, case management, and health promotion services. All designed to strengthen stability and empower each household on its path forward.
*Name changed for privacy.