Berkshire Immigrant Center Inc.

Overview

The Berkshire Immigrant Center Inc. is a nonprofit organization based in Berkshire County, Massachusetts. Its mission is to advocate for the rights of immigrants by assisting them in navigating the complex U.S. immigration system through affordable legal services, local resources, and education[1][2].

History

The Berkshire Immigrant Center was originally established in 1997 as the New American Citizenship Coalition by the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires. It primarily focused on helping Eastern European Jewish refugees who were resettling in the area. Over the years, the organization expanded its services and became a fiscal project of the Berkshire Community Action Council in 2006. In 2012, it transitioned under the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition (MIRA). By October 2021, the center became an independent 501(c)(3) organization[1].

Services

Berkshire Immigrant Center provides a range of services to support immigrants in Berkshire County and surrounding areas:

• Immigration Legal Services: The center offers low-cost legal assistance, including comprehensive screenings for pathways to legal immigration status, preparation of applications for family petitions, DACA, Temporary Protected Status (TPS), citizenship, green card renewals, and employment authorization[3][4].
• Educational Programs: Free English and civics classes are available, primarily for citizenship applicants[3].
• Financial Assistance: Limited financial aid is provided for rent and bills[3].
• Translation and Interpretation Services: Limited translation services are available for client documents, local nonprofits, and businesses[3].
• Other Support: Coordination with the Community Closet allows low-income immigrants to access clothing, toys, and household goods[3].

Advocacy and Impact

The center supports changes to systems that are unfair to immigrants and engages in state and national immigration advocacy efforts. It serves over 800 individuals annually from more than 60 countries, focusing on strengthening civic engagement and creating equal opportunities for all[1][2].

Board of Directors

The Berkshire Immigrant Center's Board of Directors consists of individuals who are committed to understanding and addressing the unique needs of the immigrant communities they support. The board includes professionals with diverse backgrounds and expertise in law and community service[5].