4 Ways to Support Friends and Family in Immigration Detention Centers

As of September 25, 2022, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have 25,134 individuals detained in immigration detention centers. 

Finding out that one of your friends or family members is in an immigration detention center is a scary situation, and you might be wondering if there's anything you can do. Thankfully, you can help out and support them. 

Here's what you can do. 

1. Learn Where They Are

When you visit ICE's website, you can enter your loved one's information to find out where they are.

If they have an Alien Number on a green card or work permit, use that number to help you locate them. Otherwise, a name, birthdate, and country of birth are enough. 

2. Become a Sponsor and Write a Letter of Support

Sponsors are legal US residents that can secure a detainee's release and receive them at their home. 

Sponsors must write a letter of support that includes information such as their relationship with the person and why the detainee deserves to remain in the country. Include the individual's positive traits, as the letter acts as a vote of confidence. 

In the letter, you should clearly state that you'll support the detainee. That includes attending hearings regarding the case and providing transportation. 

Additionally, you'll want to include proof of your legal status, address, and income. 

3. Pay the Immigration Bond

There are two ways that someone can be considered eligible for an immigration bond. The first is when an ICE immigration officer decides that the detainee is eligible. In this case, a sponsor can pay the immigration bond. 

However, if ICE doesn't set a bond, detainees can request a hearing and involve an immigration judge. The judge may decide that the detainee is eligible and set an amount for release. 

One of the best ways to help loved ones in immigration detention centers is by paying their bond as a sponsor. You'll also need to contact the immigration bonds office and set an appointment time. 

That said, you cannot use a personal check or cash to pay an immigration bond. The best way to pay is to get a cashier's check and make it out to the Department of Homeland Security or to contact an immigration bonds company. 

4. Get Legal Help

After paying the bond and having your loved one cleared for release, it's time to find legal help. At this time, you'll want to help prepare them for the hearing by learning the laws on immigration in the United States.

Find an immigration lawyer that will evaluate their case and prepare for the trial. 

Help Your Loved Ones in Immigration Detention Centers

If someone you know and love is being detained in one of our immigration detention centers, you have to act fast to help them. Use these four tips to show your support and let them know you're on their side. 

ACTION Immigration Bonds & Insurance Services, Inc. is here to help you get the bond posted and get your loved one back home. The sooner you act, the better the chances for them, so contact us today.