Diocese of Fall River, Mass. † Friday, April 4, 2025
Navigating Immigration Law: Catholic Charities of Fall River Offers Legal Assistance and Advocacy By Joan D. Warren Editor
joandwarren@anchornews.org
FALL RIVER — Immigration law is constantly evolving, with federal and state leadership changes requiring ongoing updates to policies. The Immigration Department at Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fall River remains committed to providing high-quality, low-cost legal services and education to communities throughout Southeastern Massachusetts, including Fall River, New Bedford, Taunton, Attleboro, Cape Cod, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard. Kenneth Amoriggi, Legal Director Immigration Services, acknowledges the confusion that policy shifts can cause. “Policies change all the time, leading to a lot of misinformation. By keeping our staff informed, we help our clients navigate the legal process efficiently,” he stated. Catholic Charities Immigration Services is staffed by four full-time employees, three accredited U.S. Department of Justice representatives, three paralegals, one intake coordinator, and numerous volunteers. Services are strictly provided to individuals who have entered the country legally. “More than half of those who seek our help have entered through legal channels and have a notice to appear in court. We cannot assist those who have crossed the border illegally,” Amoriggi clarified. A common misconception, he noted, is that individuals can apply for citizenship on their own. “They must be connected to a visa or green card first. After six months, they can apply for work authorization and receive a temporary Social Security card. About 85% of our clients have documentation, jobs, and pay taxes,” he said. Individuals can also obtain driver’s licenses by proving their identity with documents such
In the summer of 2023, migrants were flown from Florida to Martha’s Vineyard, where they received assistance from Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fall River. as passports, leases, and utility bills. Many of those seeking assistance are from Haiti and South America. Under current law, asylum seekers must demonstrate a personal threat of harm if they return to their home country. Previous policies under the Biden administration had allowed broader asylum qualifications.
An invitation to the faithful
A Faith-Based Commitment to Immigration Support Bishop Edgar da Cunha, S.D.V., reaffirmed the Diocese’s stance on immigration, emphasizing the Church’s teachings. “Every country has the right and obligation to secure its borders, but we must also 8 Turn to page nine
Bishop Edgar da Cunha invites the faithful to attend the Chrism Mass on April 15 in the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption, Fall River. Please turn to page 2 for the Bishop’s personal invitation. April 4, 2025 †
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