PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
American Gateways represents refugees from around the world, helps immigrant survivors of abuse, and helps reunite families.
Representing Refugees from Around the World
ADAP -- Asylum and Detention Assistance Program -- American Gateways represents refugees from around the world who may apply for asylum in the US. In preparing their claims, we assist individuals in proving a “well-founded fear of persecution” if they were to return to their country of origin. We offer representation to such asylum seekers and other immigrants who are often detained by the Department of Homeland Security while their cases are processed and/or who are facing deportation. This project also visits detention centers to provide group rights presentations to detainees so that they may better represent themselves. We also advocate on behalf of the rights of detained immigrants. Detained immigrants often have a legal reason to be in the U.S.; however, in many cases they cannot afford an attorney and as a consequence they may be deported and separated from their families.
Helping Immigrant Survivors of Abuse
PRISA -- Program Representing Immigrant Survivors of Abuse -- American Gateways offers legal counsel to battered immigrants and their children in self-petitioning for residency under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) without the sponsorship of the abusive spouse or parent, as well as in defending them from deportation. Often, when the spouse of an immigrant becomes abusive, they use the threat of withdrawing support of the immigrant’s legal status as a means to trap them in the abuse. We also promote and use the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act (VTVPA ) to protect immigrant victims of crime through the law’s “T” and “U” Visa provisions. Both visas provide legal immigration status—including work authorization—to the victims and certain family members, most of whom will be able to adjust to Legal Permanent Resident (LPR) status after three years
Reuniting Families
FBIACP -- Family Based Immigration, Adjustment and Citizenship Program -- American Gateways provides legal counsel to low-income immigrants who are filing for family-based visa petitions, applications for adjustment of status and US citizenship.
Understanding Immigration
Outreach and Advocacy – American Gateways also conducts outreach, education and training to immigrants, the public, governmental agencies, other non-profits and community groups, private attorneys and law enforcement on immigrant legal issues and advocates on behalf of immigrants.
In 2009, American Gateways provided legal services benefiting 4,587 people and conducted outreach and educational sessions for 6,047 people, including to thousands of immigrants in detention facilities. Fifty-one pro bono attorneys, and 48 other volunteers, contributed hundreds and hundreds of hours of volunteer service to American Gateways and the people we help.
