Model and Strategy
ICWC's project will provide free U visa legal representation to San Francisco's immigrant homeless women and those in transitional housing. The U visa is an immigration status for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and other serious crimes in the U.S. With a U visa, an immigrant can come out of the shadows and obtain valid work authorization. Whether homeless or seeking stable housing, these women cannot afford legal services. The U visa will in-turn allow these women to get a work authorization card to work legally AND protect them from deportation to their home country. Also, simply applying for the U visa in the state of California allows immigrant women to qualify for full-scope MediCal, food stamps, and CalWorks. ICWC will directly serve 125 women, improving their health, dignity and agency. The benefits multiply for those women with children. Further, the city of San Francisco will benefit from more women with security, safety, and self-determination.
Impact
Legal Status under the U visa for 125 women will make a durable impact on the women's lives, and those of their children. Our clients obtain economic independence by obtaining a work permit - leading to a stable job and stable housing, and removing the need to receive public benefits. ICWC surveys their clients every 2-3 years after they've received their first work permit. 100% of ICWC's clients respond in the affirmative to the following questions: "(1) Has your life improved since you received the U visa and (2) Do you feel more safe and secure? and (3) Do you feel more economically stable?" About 99% of ICWC clients return after 3 years to apply for their green card and again 5 years later to apply for citizenship. This response shows that the U visa, while just the first step in a path to permanent status, is a significant one that changes the lives of ICWC's clients and their families.
Leadership
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Suzanne McCormick
Executive Director