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| Dear Friend, As we begin a new year, we do so with a deep awareness of the uncertainty facing immigrants across the United States. January is often seen as a time of renewal and reflection, but for many in our communities, it is marked by fear, instability, and unanswered questions. Recent news of a five-year-old child taken into immigration detention after preschool has shaken many of us to our core. Stories like this emphasize the urgency of our mission and the very real human cost of shifting policies. They remind us that our work does not pause, and that compassion, preparedness, and clarity are more essential than ever. This month’s stories reflect what commitment looks like in action. From clients like María, who is building stability and opportunity for her family, to welcoming the community to our new office in San Antonio, to our continued growth and collaboration, these moments highlight the strength of community-driven work. We are also honored to be supported by partners and advocates who use their platforms and voices to uplift immigrant communities and expand access to justice. None of this work happens alone. We are deeply thankful for our supporters, volunteers, partners, and donors who make our mission possible. As we look ahead to the months to come, we ask you to stay engaged, stay informed, and continue standing with us. With Gratitude, Joy Green
Executive Director
Justice for all Immigrants |
| | María Builds a Future on Her Own Terms María came to the United States as a child. Her family was searching for a better life and medical care for her sister. Now a single mother raising her five-year-old daughter, she has spent most of her life in the U.S., building roots and running her own small business as a lash artist. In 2024, María sought legal guidance after her DACA status became too costly to renew and conflicting information left her unsure of her options. After connecting with JFAI through a community referral, Staff Attorney Daniella Salas-Chacón identified a better legal pathway. Based on María’s history, including abuse she experienced in her marriage, Daniella determined she qualified for relief under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). JFAI filed María’s VAWA petition and adjustment of status application, navigating delays and protecting her case. In 2025, she received encouraging news from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, confirming that her VAWA case was preapproved and that no further evidence was required. She is now on track to obtain a work permit. With her case moving forward, María feels renewed confidence and relief. She is now planning to expand her business and focus on long-term stability for her daughter. Reflecting on her experience, she shared, “JFAI was clear, responsive, and truly supportive throughout my case.” See more client stories here. | Visit our work, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. *Name and photo changed for privacy reasons |
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| | We are excited to share that WNBA star Brianna Turner has selected JFAI as her nonprofit partner for her upcoming season with the Indiana Fever. Brianna grew up in Pearland, Texas, and she is a fierce social justice advocate, mentor to women in sports, and treasurer of the first labor union for professional women athletes. This partnership is made possible through Athletes Unlimited (AU). Through AU’s partnership with Give Lively, JFAI will receive a grant tied to Brianna’s win bonus, supporting our immigration legal services for survivors and individuals facing removal. We are grateful for Brianna’s commitment to community impact and honored to be part of this partnership. You can follow Brianna's journey via Instagram. Thank you, Brianna, for using your platform to support immigrant families and access to justice. |
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| | San Antonio Open House On January 20, JFAI welcomed community members, partners, and supporters to our Open House, marking an exciting new chapter for our work in San Antonio. Guests joined us for an evening of conversation, connection, and warm hospitality. Attendees toured the new office space, met members of our staff, and learned about our legal programs and services. Over hot beverages and treats, attendees exchanged ideas, asked questions, and shared their support for expanding access to immigration legal services. Reflecting on the event, Executive Director Joy Green shared, “This space represents our continued commitment to showing up for immigrant communities in San Antonio and strengthening the partnerships that make this work possible.” |
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|  | Strengthening Leadership Through Learning From January 20–22, 2026, attorneys Gabriela López-Compean and Daniella Salas-Chacón participated in an on-site supervisory training in Atlanta, Georgia, facilitated by Management Information Exchange (MIE). The interactive program focused on strengthening supervisory skills for legal work, combining large-group sessions and small-group discussions. The training covered key topics, including employment law basics for legal supervisors, effective communication and performance feedback, evaluations using case management data, individual work planning, team development, and fostering healthy work environments. Gabriela shared, “This training was wonderful. I learned management strategies I can implement at JFAI and connected with supervisors across the nonprofit immigration field who will continue to be a valuable resource.” |
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| Staff Retreat at the Lawndale Art Center We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Lawndale Art Center for generously providing the venue for our 2025 staff retreat. The welcoming and creative space offered our team a meaningful setting to reconnect, reflect, and recharge together. We are grateful to Lawndale for its support and partnership in making this time possible. See Lawndale's events here. |
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| | Federal Officers Detain a 5-Year-Old Boy Outside San Antonio A 5-year-old boy and his father, arrested in Minnesota during an immigration sweep, are being held at the South Texas Family Residential Center in Dilley, Texas. The case has sparked national concern over detention conditions and legal access, drawing calls for investigation and release.
Read the full story here. Rising ICE operations and arrests in Texas As federal immigration enforcement increases nationwide, ICE operations and immigrant arrests in Texas are intensifying under the current administration, leading to community concern and calls for clarity on enforcement tactics.
Read the full story here. Second Death at Texas ICE Detention Facility Sparks Scrutiny Two men have died in recent weeks at the Camp East Montana ICE detention facility in El Paso, Texas, raising serious concerns about conditions and detainee safety. Advocacy groups are demanding investigations into treatment at federal detention centers.
Read the full story here. U.S. to Suspend Immigrant Visa Processing from 75 Countries The State Department will pause immigrant visa processing from 75 countries starting Jan. 21. The move does not affect tourist or business visas but signals a major tightening of U.S. immigration policy.
Read the full story here. |
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| | | THANK YOU! As always, we would like to express our appreciation to our supporters, whose donations have a profound impact on the lives of our clients. |
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| | Justice for all Immigrants
2220 Broadway Street | Houston, Texas 77012
713-454-6470 | info@justiceforallimmigrants.org |
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