Empowering Integration: AFL’s comprehensive support for asylum seekers in NYC
On March 2, AFL delivered an extensive array of services to asylum seekers in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, since July 2022. This comprehensive support included humanitarian aid, legal assistance, workforce development training, and art therapy, benefiting over 400 asylum seekers.
Our approach begins with addressing the immediate needs of those who seek our assistance. Through a thorough intake process, we identify asylum seekers, assess their educational backgrounds, and listen to their most urgent needs. We provide essential items such as gently used clothing and footwear, offer information on healthcare and legal resources, and serve culturally appropriate hot meals, often becoming a highlight of the week. Since July 2022, our outreach has touched the lives of more than 30,000 individuals.
Upon their arrival in the United States, asylum seekers are granted a one-year window to apply for asylum. Recognizing the complexities that arise if this period elapses, through our legal program, with the Golden Verita Group, we support asylum seekers nearing this deadline, thereby averting potential legal hurdles. On this day, we processed over 100 asylum applications, benefiting 400 individuals. Since June 2023, our legal initiatives have supported over 2,500 asylum seekers.
Our commitment to fostering self-sufficiency extends to our workforce development program, which recently offered cooking training led by Chef Grace Ramirez. Participants, with approved work permits, acquired essential culinary skills, preparing them for employment within the food industry and promoting economic independence.
According to many studies, expressing feelings through art can help deal with depression, anxiety, and trauma. On this occasion, our socio-emotional support program featured the participation of Nora Ochoa and the Colombian artist Fabio Mesa, who provided an art therapy session for over 10 adult asylum seekers. Through painting, participants were equipped with tools to navigate their emotions. The resulting masterpieces will be showcased in an exhibition to raise funds for AID FOR LIFE. Additionally, cartoonist Jorge Torreabla led a workshop for children, empowering them to express themselves through art as well.
The engagement of asylum seekers-turned-volunteers underscores the strong sense of community we have cultivated over nearly two years. Our programs are intentionally designed to facilitate the integration of asylum seekers, enabling them to make meaningful contributions to their new communities.
As we reflect on our impact, having served over 30,000 individuals since July 2022, we remain steadfast in our vision of promoting the healthy integration of all asylum seekers in NYC.
