Guide + Resources for DACA/Undocumented and Mixed Status Families in Times of COVID-19
Aliento strives to always host and create spaces where we can safely build community. During these times, we know how difficult this can be for immigrant and mixed status families and the harm it can cause to our mental health. We will continue to update you about any developments that could impact DACA recipients, mixed status families and the greater migrant community.
DACA Toolkit
JULY 6, 2022 UPDATE: DACA Court hearing begin in the 5th Court Circuit of Appeals
Watch our debrief:
Mental Health Practices
Here at Aliento, we want to make sure you are feeling supported during these stressful, isolating times. Because there is so much uncertainty occurring around us, we want to remind folks to take care of themselves and their mental health. Here are a few reminders/steps you can take. (adapted from AFSP):
1.Separate what is within your control from what is not.
There are things you can do, and it’s helpful to focus on those. Wash your hands. Remind others to wash theirs. Take your vitamins. Limit your consumption of news.
2. Get outside in nature–or do some fun exercises at home!
Exercise helps both your physical and mental health. Take a walk around your neighborhood (keep in mind #SocialDistancing), step out in your backyard for a few minutes, or have a mini-dance party in your living room.
3. Challenge yourself to stay in the present.
There’s so much going on around us that it’s only natural to start worrying about how it affects us in the future or what has yet to come. When you find yourself worrying about something that hasn’t happened, gently bring yourself back to the present moment. Notice the sights, sounds, tastes and other sensory experiences in your immediate moment and name them. Engaging in mindfulness activities is one way to help stay grounded when things feel beyond your control. Some cool free mindfulness apps to try are Smiling Mind, Stop Breathe & Think, and UCLA Mindful.
4. You are not alone 💛
We’re doing our best to stay active online and put out content to keep you informed, educated, and supported! Also make sure to talk to trusted friends and loved ones about what you are feeling. If you are feeling particularly anxious or if you are struggling with your mental health, it’s ok to reach out to a mental health professional for support. You don’t have to be alone with your worry and it can be comforting to share what you are experiencing with others.
Crisis Text Line: Text TALK to 741741
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
For children: children might be responding to the stress around them in different ways such as being more clingy, anxious, angry or agitated, withdrawing, bedwetting, etc. Respond in supportive ways and remind them that they are loved, if possible, try to give them extra attention or time to play/relax.
Source: WHO
What about USCIS? I haven’t received my DACA and it’s expiring soon.
USCIS states that they will be sending notices to folks with appointments. You can still send in your DACA, just expect some delays. Current processing time is three months. Please be supportive of those who are afraid of becoming undocumented or have a petition waiting.
For more details read USCIS statement and follow Aliento for details & analysis:
COVID- 19
Center For Disease Control and Prevention Guide
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
2-1-1 COVID-19 Hotline
With this hotline launch, Arizonans can get important COVID-19 related information in English and Spanish by simply dialing 2-1-1
Community Resources
Map of Food Banks in and around Mesa
This is a map of food banks providing assistance during the coronavirus pandemic. This map was created by the city of Mesa, Arizona. For questions, email digital@mesaaz.gov
COVID-19 Mutual Aid Group Phoenix Metro Area
Puente and Barrio Café are among the food banks not requiring IDs or other information to receive meals. Other local food banks don’t require legal status but may ask for an ID or proof that you live in the region, such as a utility or similar bill with an address. Contact sites to confirm service times, which may vary because of coronavirus.
Ventanilla de Salud: medical/psychological care, serves anyone regardless of legal status, 602-540-2065.
Mexican Consulate Office: emergency referral services, 520-623-7874 or 602-330-3624.
COVID-19 mutual aid group: (contact to come)
Puente Human Rights: food bank, 10 a.m. Monday mornings, 1937 W. Adams. Text the word “food” or “comida” to 480-506-7437 for information, http://puenteaz.org/
Chef Silvana Salcido Esparza with local restaurants: free meals, 5 p.m. daily, Barrio Café, 2814 N. 16 Street. Phoenix, https://www.instagram.com/chefsilvana/
Harvest Compassion Center: food, hygiene, baby and clothing. Phoenix: 1-602-788-2444; Maryvale: 623-247-0039, https://harvestcompassioncenter.org/
Hope for Hunger: food bank, 602-773-4344, https://phoenixrescuemission.org/hope-for-hunger/
Neighborhood Ministries: food bank, open 9:30-11 a.m. Fridays. 630-561-3009 or 602-332-9790, https://nmphx.com/programs/food-clothing-bank/
St. Vincent de Paul: meals to go, call 602-850-6948 to find local parish, https://www.stvincentdepaul.net/programs/dining-rooms/dining-room-locations.
St. Mary’s Food Bank: mobile food pantry, 480-291-3237. https://www.firstfoodbank.org/
Andre House: meals, 602-255-0580 https://andrehouse.org/covid-19-response/
List of additional Arizona food banks: http://www.azfoodbanks.org/index.php/foodbank
Educational Activities
Teachers Pay Teachers
TpT is the go-to place for educators to find the resources, knowledge, and inspiration they need to teach at their best.
Teaching Tolerance
Teaching Tolerance provides free resources to educators—teachers, administrators, counselors and other practitioners—who work with children from kindergarten through high school. Educators use our materials to supplement the curriculum, to inform their practices, and to create civil and inclusive school communities where children are respected, valued and welcome participants.
Free Ivy League Courses
Aliento is a community immigrant organization that is DACA, undocumented and youth-led. We are directly impacted people and allies who are invested in the well being, emotional healing, and leadership development of those impacted by the inequalities of lacking an immigration status. We are based out of Mesa, Arizona and support families beyond Arizona.
We will be updating this guide frequently given that the news and information. If you find this guide helpful, make sure to share it with your friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers.
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