In an effort to reach underserved communities that have high numbers of eligible-to-naturalize individuals, grantee Bonding Against Adversity (BAA) is taking to the streets. The Citizenship Now! mobile unit is part of a collaborative effort that aims to reach 70,000 lawful permanent residents who could benefit from citizenship preparation and filing services. The mobile unit will bring information on citizenship resources and civic engagement events to areas such as North Houston, Liberty County, and Katy.
Since 2010, Bonding Against Adversity has helped lawful permanent residents in the greater Houston region become U.S. citizens. Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the nation, with close to one in four people being foreign-born.
The Migration Policy Institute estimates about 360,000 lawful permanent residents call the Houston region home and meet the criteria to become citizens. Although they are eligible, fewer than 10 percent complete the naturalization process every year for a range of reasons, including language requirements and the cost to apply.
With the support from Houston Endowment, Bonding Against Adversity is enhancing programs that motivate and support lawful permanent residents who want to become U.S. citizens. The mobile unit, which is part of BAA’s Multi-Generational Path to Citizenship Project, brings information and application support directly to community partners that request it. Businesses, libraries, faith organizations, and other groups can request the mobile unit if they identify interest from at least 10 lawful permanent residents.
“The mobile unit concept has been well received, and we’re seeing a renewed interest in the range of services our organization provides for lawful permanent residents,” said Mariana Sanchez, BAA’s vice president and chief operating officer. “When we’re out in the community, people take photos of the wrapped unit and share that information with others. We know lawful permanent residents find their way to us through trusted messengers who know our organization, and this makes it easier for people to spread the word.”
Bonding Against Adversity is tracking referral data from the mobile unit to guide future efforts.
“There are so many people who want to become citizens so they can participate in elections, have more job options, and create a better life for their families. They’ve lived here for decades in many cases and already give so much to our community. If everyone who was eligible completed this process, our community would be strengthened across all measures,” Sanchez said. “The mobile unit is just the beginning of creative ideas to reach lawful permanent residents.”