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Show your support for immigrants in our communities with a gift!
On October 28th, National Immigrants Day, Esperanza Immigration Legal Services (EILS) launched a crowdfunding campaign to celebrate all those living beside us who came from another country to find hope and a future in the United States of America. Immigrants are our neighbors, co-workers, and family members. They are small business owners and entrepreneurs striving each day to realize their goals and dreams and to contribute to stronger communities - for all of us. You can make a difference this #GivingTuesday and holiday season by helping EILS to reach its goal!
EILS empowers immigrants in the heart of North Philadelphia with the immigration legal services, information, referrals, citizenship interview preparation, and civic education that can open doors.
As Bienvenido shared with us, "When you don't have documents, you feel like nothing and people see you differently...and you feel very differently, and you don't feel as free..." But Bienvenido today has a full life here, where he contributes as a father, husband, and mechanic. Others we have served are pursuing their college degree, opening businesses, and sharing their rich cultures and experiences with us. (Scroll down to see Yelissa's story below!)
Each has their own unique journey and story. Each is essential to our communities.
Citizenship and other forms of immigration relief afford access to quality health care, employment, lending opportunities, and a greater voice in civic participation.
You can make a difference in the lives of immigrants in Philadelphia and surrounding areas with a gift to EILS!
We are looking to raise $15,000 for EILS' vital services. We can't do it without you. By telling others why you support immigrants, sharing their stories, and inviting your friends and family to give, we can make a difference together.
Join EILS as we amplify the contributions of immigrants in our communities!
Click the DONATE button above to give today, or REGISTER to create a fundraising page and invite others to join you!
Get started! Here's how:
Click on the "Register" button below to create your own fundraising page or create one with a team
Set the goal you hope to raise. You can raise money on your own, or with a team of friends or coworkers who each have their own fundraising pages.
Share your page on social media and spread the word! Invite others to donate and watch your $ raised thermometer rise!
Cuentos de Esperanza: Yelissa's Story
Yelissa arrived in America seven years ago, on a snowy March day. She remembers the shock of the cold, and the heartache she felt for her native country, the Dominican Republic.
"My first year here was very hard and I had no resources to help me, just my dad. The most difficult part was that the rest of my family was back in my home country..."
But Yelissa persisted for herself, and for her three children. For Yelissa, being a mother is one of the most important parts of her life and a motivating factor to applying for citizenship.
"Being a mother is the most important part of my life...I can offer them a better life here, better schools, and more opportunities...I value spending time with my children for sure....The most important thing is to stay united as a family and that my children receive a good education..."
Yelissa first heard about EILS from a cousin. EILS supported Yelissa through the process of becoming a citizen, so that she can continue to build her life here in the United States of America.
Now, as a citizen, Yelissa works as a home healthcare aide. But Yelissa also loves doing hair. In the future, she hopes to study new techniques for hair to further this passion.
THANK YOU for taking the time to give to make stories like Yelissa's possible for many more!