The United States-Mexico border is replete with human rights violations, but a new “zero-tolerance” policy separating children from their parents has rocked the nation. With the aim of deterring undocumented immigrants, particularly those from Central America, from arriving to the United States to seek asylum, the Trump Administration is callously ripping young children – some only infants – from their parents, something experts say can have long-lasting effects on both parents and kids. Since the policy was enacted six weeks ago, nearly 2,000 children have been separated from their moms and/or dads. As immigration advocates protest and public figures like Bill Clinton (who also did a lot of damage to immigrant communities) denounce this inhumane treatment, there are some other ways you can help this vulnerable group.
Several non-profit groups are working to provide these families with legal representation and to cover the costs of their immigration bond. Below, check out # groups you can donate to or serve as a volunteer as this humanitarian crisis unfolds.
1
RAICES
The Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services (RAICES) is raising money for immigration bond. With bond set at a minimum of $1,500 – but oftentimes between $5,000 and $10,000 – it’s extremely cost prohibitive for many. Additionally, bail bond companies do “not help people in immigration proceedings or impose very strict requirements, like private ankle monitors (which families have to pay to “rent”), according to RAICES. The org is hoping to raise $1,638,400. Donate here.
2
The Florence Project
Nonprofit org The Florence Project helps undocumented immigrants in Arizona detention centers. The government does not provide people who cross the border without documentation legal representation. So many go without legal assistance and are forced to navigate our complicated immigration system on their own. Donate here.
3
The Texas Civil Rights Project
Spanish, Mam, and Q’eqchi’ speakers are needed as undocumented immigrants arrive at the border. Learn more here.
4
The Young Center
The Young Center for Immigrant Children’s Rights help unaccompanied children in every step of deportation proceedings. With children being separated from their families, the Young Center is working to reunite them. Donate here.
5
Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project
With many of the undocumented immigrants seeking asylum in the United States, the work of the Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project is incredibly important. The group works quickly to try to prevent the deportation of those fleeing their native countries. Donate here.