As Mother’s Day approaches, I am reminded that a focus of our work at Justice For Our Neighbors is to unite immigrant families, including mothers and children like Esther.
Fleeing gang violence and death threats in Mexico, Esther and her two young children entered the United States several years ago. Even though the family had a credible fear of returning home to Mexico and therefore were good candidates for asylum, they did not file with U.S. immigration within the required time from their arrival into the U.S. Desperate to remain safely in the U.S. with her children, Esther sought help from JFON. Staff attorneys, with the help of volunteers, met with the family over a period of months and were able to help her receive something called Prosecutorial Discretion (PD). It can be difficult to secure PD, but JFON was able to help her attain this for humanitarian reasons due to her extenuating circumstances. Although PD does not lead to legal permanent residency, it protects Esther from being deported to Mexico. Thanks to JFON, Esther will be able to care for and raise her five children, three of whom are U.S. citizens, in safety and security. They will be united this Mother’s Day and for many holidays to come.
Currently, our staff attorneys and team of committed volunteers are handling more than 2700 cases, including 750 cases focused on uniting families. We rely on support from individuals like you to serve these low-income families, and to do so in an environment of hospitality, trust, and love.
This coming Mother’s Day, I ask that you support our ministry by making a tax-deductible donation in honor or memory of your mother or another loved one. Donate to your local JFON or to National Justice For Our Neighbors.
Thank you for your support of Justice For Our Neighbors. We hope that you have a wonderful Mother’s Day.
Blessings,
Rob Rutland-Brown Executive Director, National Justice For Our Neighbors
