Empower and Defend Long Island's Immigrants

Empower and Defend Long Island's Immigrants image

Immigrants are our family, our friends, our neighbors — they are an essential part of the Long Island community. But more than ever, immigrant rights and freedoms are in danger. CARECEN exists to defend and stand with immigrants. Join us in this mission.

See how your donations are changing lives

From Dreamer to Healer: MD’s Journey

MD came to the U.S. from Cuenca, Ecuador at 16 to reunite with her mother, who cleans houses on Long Island. Determined to succeed, MD graduated from a Long Island high school in 2023 and is now a full-time biology major at Suffolk Community College. She dreams of becoming a pediatrician while working part-time on campus and training with her local Volunteer Ambulance Corps to serve her community.

Because of donors like you, CARECEN was able to:

  • Guide her through college and financial aid (DREAM Act/TAP) applications.
  • Award her a Jóvenes al Mando $300 scholarship.
  • Provide a reference for her successful application to the Volunteer Ambulance Corps.
  • Offer mentorship through Jóvenes al Mando support group.
  • Assist with her application to transfer to Stony Brook University for Fall 2025.

Now, MD is paying it forward, sharing CARECEN’s resources with classmates facing fear and uncertainty. Your generosity empowers young immigrants like her to pursue their dreams—thank you!

From Crisis to Stability: Clara’s Journey

Clara and her 14-year-old son came to the U.S. from the Dominican Republic, hoping to build a new life with her U.S.-citizen husband. But instead of security, she endured a year of emotional and financial abuse, leaving her on the verge of homelessness. Already grieving the loss of her eldest son back home, she faced an overwhelming battle for stability and safety.

Because of donors like you, CARECEN was able to:

  • Provide legal assistance to help her secure permanent residency.
  • Connect her to The Safe Center for housing support.
  • Refer her to the Hispanic Counseling Center for mental health care.
  • Assist her in accessing food benefits with the help of a SNAP specialist.
  • Write a support letter to help her qualify for critical financial assistance.

With your support, Clara has rebuilt her life. She completed training as a certified home health aide, secured safe housing with a trusted friend, and is now working toward financial independence. Your generosity makes stories like Clara’s possible—thank you!

From Persecution to Hope: Carlos’ Journey

Carlos fled his home country to escape violent persecution and homophobia. Now in the U.S. seeking asylum, he is working to rebuild his life with support from CARECEN.

Because of donors like you, CARECEN was able to:

  • Provide legal assistance for his asylum case.
  • Connect him to health insurance, allowing him to receive long-overdue medical care, including treatment for a broken nose.
  • Ensure access to behavioral health support for anxiety and dental care for longstanding issues.
  • Help him file a complaint with the NYS Attorney General’s office after losing thousands to immigration fraud.
  • Provide Shop Rite food cards and connect him to local food pantries for essential groceries.

Thanks to your generosity, Carlos is finally getting the care and stability he needs to move forward. Your support changes lives—thank you!