Facing Down Deportation
Dear Friend of BCNH,
We are writing with a deep sense of urgency and resolve. The future of the families we have helped resettle in New Hampshire—Ukrainians, Afghans, and Haitians—is at grave risk. The incoming administration has issued threats of deportation that loom over their heads. These families came to the United States legally, with federal authorization to work and pay taxes. Yet their current “humanitarian parolee” status leaves them perilously vulnerable.
We refuse to stand by.
Here's how we're making a difference:
Supporting Haitian Families: Kenly Jacques, our Haitian case manager, unites Haitians in our community. By bringing Haitians together in our office, he fosters solidarity and provides guidance to help them navigate these uncertain times. Their anxiety is palpable, and their need for support is urgent.
Advocating for Ukrainians: Our Ukrainian case managers, Liliya Mayevsky and Kateryna Nazarova, work tirelessly to file parole extensions for Ukrainians who have been here for two years. Many fled from Eastern Ukraine, now under Russian occupation, and returning is simply not an option. Yet, the fate of these extensions remains uncertain.
Standing with Afghans: Hussain Amiri, a U.S. citizen and trusted advocate for Afghans, is guiding his clients—men and women who risked everything to support America in Afghanistan—through the labyrinth of extended parole or asylum applications. Suddenly, neither path to security is clear.
Collaborating for Impact: BCNH is working hand-in-hand with resettlement partners across the state to tackle these challenges head-on. Together, we are stronger.
Our clients urgently need immigration attorneys, yet BCNH currently has no budget to cover these critical legal services and, by next October, we expect to lose 100% of the funding from the U.S. Office of Refugee Resettlement that has supported our six case managers—the staff whose work has been instrumental in helping New Americans build lives and contribute to New Hampshire’s economy.
We are determined to persevere, but we need your help.
BCNH will survive this funding cut, but the scale and impact of our services depends on your generosity. Please consider making a year-end gift—today—by clicking on the donate button on this website or mailing a check. If you are in a position to provide pro bono legal support, please contact me directly. Every contribution makes an immediate difference. Together, we can ensure these families feel secure and valued in their new home.
Thank you for standing with us. As our Ukrainian friends say, we wish you and yours peaceful skies. With gratitude and determination,
Richard A. Minard, Jr.
Executive Director
Building Community in New Hampshire
