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Useful Resources for Supporting Migrant Workers By Amy Collette
The contributions of migrant workers help to power our economy and society. Their work is also crucial to the function of our agricultural industry and food supply. Yet the aftereffects of the pandemic continue to present many challenges for migrant workers, and sadly, many migrant workers may not know where to turn when dealing with these hardships.
To help shed light on these issues to keep readers aware and informed, we hope the following resources, courtesy of Viwida USA, will help you assist migrant workers in your area who need help covering their basic needs or connecting with legal support.
Legal Solutions
Naturally, migrant workers are concerned about the ins and outs of the legal system. The following are packed with valuable information on immigration law.
- As The Huffington Post notes, migrant workers do have certain legal rights in the workplace, and they can take action if these rights are violated.
- This guide answers pressing questions for workers who are hoping to upgrade their visas.
- Translators and legal professionals who can assist workers in applying for visas or fighting deportation can be located through freelance job boards.
Covering the Basics
Everyone wants to have a roof over their head and food on their plates. These tips will help migrant workers access these essentials.
- Migrant workers looking for housing should be aware that their accommodations should meet certain established requirements.
- Migrant workers can seek healthcare through affordable community health centers, according to HealthSherpa.
- Migrant workers can obtain vital staples for their households from local food banks. Some children of migrant workers do qualify for public food assistance programs like SNAP.
Family Issues
Many migrant workers bring their families along with them when they find an employer. These resources will address questions that are especially important to parents.
- Children of migrant workers may benefit from connecting with a social worker in school.
- Migrant workers and everyone else in their household should be informed on what to do if an immigration officer comes to their door.
- Children who have fallen behind in school because of the pandemic may benefit from practicing their language skills with these ESL resources.
- There is a relief fund providing direct assistance for migrant farmworkers and their families who have suffered because of the pandemic.
Launch Your Own Nonprofit
If resources in your community are minimal or you feel compelled to do more, starting your own organization to help migrant workers is a viable next step. These resources can help you determine if a nonprofit is right for you.
- Determine the necessary startup costs for a nonprofit organization.
- Research similar organizations in other areas of the country to learn about their structure and services.
- Find out what’s required to form a legal business entity, like a New Jersey LLC, for your nonprofit. ZenBusiness is an excellent formation service, and offers a registered agent at no additional cost. A LegalZoom registered agent, however, will cost you nearly $200 extra.
- Learn about the management and reporting requirements for nonprofit organizations.
Life as a migrant worker is not easy. The COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath has only made things more difficult. Whether you’re looking to start your own nonprofit or simply looking for small ways to make an impact, these resources are a meaningful place to start.
In the quest to build a better world, Viwida USA helps women stand up, lean in, and be everything they can be. Find out more today!