Coalition for Human Immigrant Rights Offers Resources as Immigration Assistance Program Begins Accepting Applications

LOS ANGELES (KABC) — Brenda Valle is a wife and mother and has long waited for an opportunity to change her immigration status.

“I’m really excited about the opportunity that begins today,” Valle said.

On Monday, Valle joined members of CHIRLA, the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights. The organization hosts weekly information sessions and helps people apply for a new program called Keeping Families Together.

“CHIRLA has fought for this program and we are here to bring it into your life,” said Angelica Salas, CHIRLA Executive Director.

Due to an executive order from President Joe Biden, some spouses and stepchildren of non-citizen U.S. citizens can now apply for lawful permanent residency without leaving the country.

“The program can save up to 500,000 families from deportation and pave their path to citizenship,” Salas said.

“Eligible applicants will be able to stay with their families in the United States, obtain a work permit, apply for a green card and ultimately obtain U.S. citizenship,” said Karla Aguayo, general counsel at CHIRLA.

Applications can be submitted starting Monday and Valle’s application will be one of them.

Her husband, Antonio Valle, said this opportunity was a great relief. He grew up separated from his father. “It was really hard for me as a child and I don’t want to put my children through that,” he said.

The Valle family has a list of things they would like to tick off, including visiting their loved ones in Mexico.

Many speakers drew attention back to those who are not eligible for the program. “We must continue to advocate for policies that protect the dignity of every family,” Valle said.

As a student enrollment administrator and DACA recipient, Valle understands this reality. “Just because I’m getting help doesn’t mean the work is over,” she said. “I have family members, I have friends, I have students that I mentor who didn’t have a chance at DACA or who don’t qualify under this administration’s executive order.”

CHIRLA workshops take place on Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoons at 2 p.m. at the headquarters in Los Angeles.