Maria and Simón

In January, KIAC received an urgent call from a woman whose husband was detained in the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma. Maria and her husband Simón, (names changed for confidentiality) fled their native country after receiving harassment and threats from elements of their government — a government Simón and his family had been in opposition to for years. After a hard and dangerous trip, this young couple crossed the US-Mexico border and turned themselves into immigration agents — seeking asylum.

Both were detained, but for medical reasons, Maria was released. After visiting Simón, we filed a motion for a bond hearing with the immigration court. We presented our case in detail at the bond hearing and the judge granted a bond the family could afford. 

We met Simón at the detention center gate upon his release and arranged a place for him to stay and a ride to the airport. Simón was reunited with Maria the next day.

We couldn’t do this work without the support of our community. Kitsap Great Give early giving is OPEN and all gifts are boosted! Schedule your gift today at https://kitsapgreatgive.org/profile/s/kitsap-immigrant-assistance-center