National JFON responds to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis
As our world has been thrown into disarray by the spread of COVID-19, I’d like to share a word about Justice for Our Neighbors’ commitment to our work during these challenging times.
At Justice for Our Neighbors our work continues, because our clients depend on us. Our clients – low-income immigrants from around the world – are impacted from this pandemic in ways most of us are fortunate enough not to experience firsthand. Many of them lack access to food, are unable to work, and have anxiety about seeking healthcare, all while worrying about their immigration status. Some clients are still being required to attend crowded court rooms, forced to face the risk of contracting coronavirus or being deported.
I am grateful for our incredible staff around the country who steadfastly serve their clients during this time of crisis. JFON sites will not be holding group clinics during this time, nor leading community presentations about our immigration laws, as we so often do.
Instead, our staff have uprooted their offices to their homes, many of them (like many of you) having to continue their pressing work while supervising their children whose schools have closed. Our attorneys are devising new ways to interact with clients remotely, and staff at our 18 sites are beginning to meet more frequently via video conference. We are taking advantage of the relationships we’ve forged as a network and learning from one another as we figure out the best ways carry out our mission amidst uncharted waters.
In summary, please be assured that we are committed to working for our clients and that we will do so in a safe, responsible manner. I know each of us is experiencing our own stresses and challenges during this unprecedented time. I’m grateful for your support of Justice for Our Neighbors and pray for your health and safety.
Warmly,
Rob Rutland-Brown
Executive Director, National JFON
