Moving Forward Together

Press Releases

Jewish Family Service Hosts Free DACA Day Event to Assist Dreamers with Application Renewals


SAN DIEGO (August 14, 2023) – As individuals with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status, also known as “Dreamers,” continue to face uncertainty after years of debate on the validity of the program in the federal court system, and in anticipation of another District Court decision, Jewish Family Service of San Diego’s (JFS) Higher Education Legal Services team (HELS) will host a free event to ensure that all who need to renew their DACA application have legal representation and assistance throughout the complex immigration process.

DACA Day will be held on Saturday, Sept. 9 at the JFS Joan & Irwin Jacobs Campus in Kearny Mesa (8804 Balboa Avenue) from 9:00am to 1:00pm. Space is limited with pre-event registration required via jfssd.org/dacaday; registration ends August 31.

The event will include:

  • Free legal representation and information
  • Application photo and submission
  • Filing fees assistance up to $495 for eligible applicants
  • Know Your Rights resources
  • Snacks and prizes

“Since the inception of DACA in 2012, JFS has assisted over 1,000 individuals with their DACA applications and renewals,” said JFS CEO Michael Hopkins. “With an estimated 40,000 DACA recipients living in San Diego County, we have seen firsthand how Dreamers build a stronger, healthier, more resilient San Diego. We encourage anyone in need of assistance renewing their application to register and attend our DACA Day to ensure they continue to receive the protections afforded to them through the DACA program.”

JFS’s Higher Education Legal Services provides local college communities with pro bono immigration legal services, including for DACA. For questions related to HELS or DACA Day, call (858) 637-3345 or contact [email protected].

More information available at jfssd.org/daca.

About Jewish Family Service of San Diego – Moving Forward Together
Through integrated services, Jewish Family Service (JFS) empowers people of all ages, faiths, and backgrounds to overcome challenges, set goals, and build more stable, secure, and connected lives. The organization is committed to helping individuals and families move forward while developing innovative strategies to break cycles of poverty and strengthen our San Diego community.

To get help, volunteer or support JFS, visit jfssd.org or call 858-637-3000.

 

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Media Contacts:
Sandy Young / Ashley Bendas
[email protected] / [email protected]
J. Walcher Communications, (619) 295-7140