Nonprofit organizations in Wisconsin are working tirelessly to help immigrants and refugees who are facing growing uncertainty due to recent changes in immigration policies. These nonprofits are stepping in to provide legal aid, resources, and emotional support to those who need it most.
One such organization, the Catholic Multicultural Center in Madison, runs a legal immigration program for individuals earning less than 300% of the poverty line. The program not only helps people identify the benefits they are eligible for but also assists them in applying for those benefits.
Steve Maurice, the director of the Catholic Multicultural Center, shared that the program had a remarkable 99% success rate last year. “When newly arrived immigrants come to us, they are usually hopeful and happy to be here. They feel safe, knowing they have escaped the dangers of their home countries,” Maurice said.
Growing Concerns About Immigration Policy Changes
However, the recent shifts in immigration policies have created confusion and fear among immigrants. Maurice explained that while the center’s staff members have been busy answering questions, they are now dealing with uncertainties of their own.
“Unfortunately, with all the changes, there’s a lot of fear and confusion,” Maurice said. “Immigration policies are not one-size-fits-all. Each case is unique, and these changes affect people differently.”
Recent policy changes under the Trump administration include allowing U.S. military personnel to act as immigration and border enforcement agents, pausing refugee admissions, and altering rules about birthright citizenship. One of the most concerning changes for nonprofits is the removal of protections for schools and churches as safe spaces.
Impact on Nonprofits and Immigrant Communities
Nonprofits like the Catholic Multicultural Center are finding it more difficult to reassure immigrants of their safety. “Before, schools and churches were protected spaces where enforcement wasn’t allowed. Now, that rule has been changed, and it puts our clients in a vulnerable position,” Maurice said.
Another nonprofit, Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan, has resettled over 11,000 refugees in the past 40 years. Despite the challenges, the organization remains committed to its mission. In a statement, they reaffirmed their dedication to serving individuals and families fleeing war and persecution.
“We work closely with partners like Global Refuge and the State of Wisconsin Refugee Coordinator to navigate these new policies and continue our support for refugees,” the statement read.
A Promise to Keep Helping
Even in these uncertain times, nonprofits in Wisconsin remain determined to provide a safe space for immigrants and refugees. Maurice emphasized the importance of faith-based values in their work. “The Catholic faith, and Christian faith in general, is about welcoming strangers and helping those in need. We will continue to do that,” he said.
The federal government’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) currently operates one detention facility in Wisconsin, located at the Dodge County Jail.
As immigration policies evolve, nonprofits in Wisconsin are proving to be a lifeline for immigrants and refugees. Their work ensures that, despite the fear and uncertainty, there is still hope and support for those who need it most.
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