PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
Representing immigrants from around the world, American Gateways helps survivors of abuse, human trafficking, and asylum seekers forced to leave their home country find legal pathways to a new life in the United States.
Representing Refugees from Around the World
ADAP -- Asylum and Detention Assistance Program -- American Gateways represents refugees from around the world who are seeking asylum in the US - many who are unnecessarily detained. In many cases these immigrants have fled from their home countries out of fear of persecution, torture, and abuse. Leaving everything behind, many cannot afford a private attorney and as a consequence the likelihood of deportation and separation from their families is high. In preparing their claims, we assist individuals in proving a “well-founded fear of persecution” should they return to their country of origin. We offer representation to asylum seekers and other immigrants who are 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 self-help Know-Your- Rights & Responsibilites presentations to detainees so that they may better represent themselves when staff or pro bono attorneys are unavailable.
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). Many abusive spouses and parents use the threat of deportation to discourage their victim from reporting the abuse to law enforcement. Threatening to withdraw support of the abused immigrant's legal status is a frequently used method to keep the abused immigrant trapped in the cycle of abuse.
We also promote and use the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act (VTVPA ) to protect immigrant victims of crime through immigration's “T” and “U” Visa legal provisions. Both visas provide legal immigration status—including work authorization—to 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. We believe in the dignity of the human spirit and advocate 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.
