Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced a major change in U.S. immigration policy this Sunday, declaring that Venezuelans who were previously under Temporary Protected Status (TPS) now have the opportunity to apply for refugee status in the United States.

This comes after the U.S. military operation in Venezuela on Saturday.

So, where can people seeking permanent status get help? One place is the Fresno Center.

The Fresno Center is a community nonprofit that has helped immigrant and refugee families since 1991, helping people navigate the path to permanent status in the United States.

Cherri Cruz, the Director of Public and Community Relations, explained how the center first opened its doors in the early 1990s to assist southeast Asian refugees, including many from the Hmong community, teaching them English, helping enroll children in school, and providing support with employment and housing.

“We were there to walk them through the whole process,” said Cruz, "While we continue to support that population, we've opened our doors to anybody and everybody in our community."

She adds that the Fresno Center still helps with that process with a diverse team, ready to guide families every step of the way.

Families seeking guidance with residency, citizenship, or simply understanding the immigration process can turn to the Fresno Center for hands-on support and legal guidance in their own language.

They offer classes, workshops, and help with paperwork.

While residency and citizenship remain at the heart of the Fresno Center’s work, they offer a variety of programs designed to support every aspect of their lives.

Even if they walk through the door because they're interested in immigration services or they want to be a us citizen. We're going to make sure that's not the only service that they get, that they know the Fresno Center is here with over 20 programs and services.

KPMH Fox 26 News

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