Supporting immigrant families
Through programs like after school tutoring and adult English classes, CIANA fosters a family atmosphere to support immigrants
The historic migration of new residents from around the world to New York City continues and the CWE network of community organizations is welcoming and supporting these new New Yorkers.
Staff members at the Center for the Integration & Advancement of New Americans (CIANA) in Astoria know when a new group has arrived at one of two nearby shelters, because soon thereafter, the new neighbors will be coming through CIANA’s doors. Many arrive with nothing, says Sophie Riina, Director of Education Programs at the CIANA.
“One person tells a friend and they walk in with five people,” says Riina. “We provide small comforts like coffee, food, and snacks. Our staff has donated clothing and backpacks for migrants to take what they like. Many don’t have clothes for our winter weather.”
CIANA was founded in 2006 to support immigrants and their integration into American life and continuation of their cultural heritage. CIANA provides case management, legal support and classes to adults, and afterschool tutoring to children. Having parents and children participating in programs in the same building gives CIANA a family atmosphere and allows staff to identify challenges they are facing.
CWE provides an ESL teacher to CIANA, which had long-relied on dedicated volunteers to lead its classes.
“It really helps to have a professional teacher to help our adult students, especially the beginners,” says Riina.
The immigrants coming to CIANA are from across the globe including North Africa, Sub Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. CIANA’s civics class prepares immigrants for the naturalization test and interview. CIANA’s part-time attorney is also able to help with some immigration services, such as completing immigration forms and applications.
CIANA’s case managers are able to help residents access much-needed services like affordable housing, food assistance, and discounted Metrocards. They are helping New York City’s newest migrants sign up for services like Fair Fares, NYC Care, and NYC ID.
Community organizations like CIANA need more funding and guidance from the government to be able to serve new arrivals.
“We are at capacity. Beyond capacity,” says Riina. “New migrants aren’t getting the services where they are, so they are coming to us. CIANA and other organizations are doing the best we can with the funding we have, so it is great when we can partner with CWE to help our communities.”