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Accessing services without government benefits is never easy — and right now, it’s even harder. The information below is meant to help you support someone in this situation by pointing to safer, community-based resources and sharing practical steps. You don’t need to have all the answers — just being present, informed, and steady can make a real difference. DO NOT GIVE ADVICE to an individual regarding their immigration status as they can be very complex and the field rapidly changing. It is always best to connect the person to an immigration lawyer who can give them advice specific to their case. |
Disclaimer: We strive to keep the information on this page accurate and up to date. However, programs and requirements can change, and we may not always be aware of those changes immediately. If you notice any outdated or incorrect information, or if you have suggestions for additional resources we should include, please reach out to your community's Resources and Opportunities (R&O) manager to make them aware of the changes needed. |
| This is not legal advice, and for any legal matters people should consult with an attorney. It is also possible that some issues may evolve, making it more important to consult with an attorney on information specific to your case. This information was last updated on August 8, 2025. |
Ask Coaching Questions |
Seek clarity about problem:
- What are you struggling with right now?
- How long has this been a concern?
- How long have you been in the country?
- What’s your country of origin?
- When did you come to the US?
- How did you arrive in the United States? Did you receive special documents to allow you to stay in the United States?
- Have you ever had contact with law enforcement?
Ask about options:
- Who have you asked for help?
- What have you tried so far?
- Have you been in this situation before? If so, how did you handle it?
- Do you know anyone who has been in this situation before? If so, how did you handle it?
- Do you have any friends or family who could lend you money or support you this month?
- Are you interested in a pathway to eligibility?
Take Steps to Advocate |
Confirm their immigration status in the United States:
Some immigrant groups qualify for benefits, but changing policies and fear often discourage access. When policies change, the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) publishes a policy brief detailing the updates as they take effect. These changes can be found here.
For a full list of populations that are eligible for ORR services check: Status and Documentation Requirements for the ORR Refugee Resettlement Program
If the Young Person/Family has ORR eligibility status, you can reach out to Maryland’s State Refugee Coordinator or State Refugee Health Coordinator (The Office of Refugee Resettlement maintains a page that includes Key State Contacts)
- State Website: Maryland Office for Refugees and Asylees
- Maryland Center for Global Migration and Immigrant Health
Get Advice/Information
- Contact the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs here.
Connect to Resources |
Address the Immediate Need
- Esperanza Center at 667-600-2314
- Asylee Women Enterprise at 443-850-0627; info@asyleewomen.org Services for all asylum seekers, not exclusive to women
- Healthcare for the Homeless can help refer and provide medical services for individuals who are unable to obtain insurance.
- Casa de Maryland - Offers legal aid, immigrant advocacy, and some financial assistance regardless of status.
- Catholic Charities Immigration Legal Services: - Helps with immigration paperwork, and sometimes provides emergency aid without status requirements.
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Maryland Immigrant Legal Assistance Project (MILAP) through the ProBono Resource Center - Provides legal help, including know-your-rights education and some financial referrals.
Attempt to Prevent Future Crises
- Set up a meeting with a lawyer to talk about your options
If you need an attorney
You can use the National Immigration Legal Resource Directory to search for immigration legal services providers by state, county, or detention facility. Only nonprofit organizations that provide free or low-cost immigration legal services are included in this directory.
BEWARE OF IMMIGRATION SCAMS
Ensure You Seek Counsel of a Licensed Attorney and protect yourself, your clients, of your family from becoming victims. Because there is a lot of uncertainty around immigration at this moment, bad actors will try to take advantage of the situation.
Notario Fraud takes place when individuals represent themselves as qualified to offer legal advice or services concerning immigration or other matters of law. These individuals have no such qualification and routinely victimize members of immigration communities. Please visit stopnotariofraud.org for more information on how to protect yourself.
The Executive Office for Immigration's List of Currently Disciplined Practitioners through the Justice Department lists attorneys who have previously received disciplinary action and are not in good standing with their law licenses.
| If you've gone through all of the above steps in your relationship, you can apply to see if you qualify for additional financial assistance. |
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