There is a significant backlog at the federal government level in processing work permit applications. Many beneficiaries of Temporary Protected Status and other immigration programs have been waiting for their employment cards for over a year, and many received them after the expiration date.
“We are glad that the Biden-Harris Administration is hosting this clinic with us, which will help process work authorizations as efficiently as possible. Many shelter residents want to work but face significant barriers to getting their work authorizations,” said Governor Maura Healey.
This work session will also provide an opportunity for the State of Massachusetts to connect immigrants with employers.
“This clinic will be essential to continue the work our administration has already undertaken to connect more migrants with employment opportunities, which will help them support their families and leave emergency shelters to find more stable housing solutions,” according to a statement from the governor’s office.
Transportation will be available at the shelter locations to facilitate the migrants’ travel during this clinic, as announced by the governor’s office.
The state of Massachusetts is the preferred destination for many undocumented individuals, the vast majority of whom are Haitians.
Unable to afford rent, many newly arrived immigrants are placed in temporary shelters as part of a program established by the Massachusetts state government. This program will come to an end soon. “Starting on November 1, 2023, the state will no longer be able to add new housing units. At that time, families seeking shelter will be assessed, and those with significant needs, such as health and safety risks, will be given priority. Families with no immediate housing solutions will be placed on a waiting list,” according to a statement available on the government’s website.
Several weeks ago, Governor Maura Healey had advocated for a new designation of Temporary Protected Status for Haitian immigrants. Several letters were sent to the White House in this regard, as indicated by Maura Healey during an interview with WGBH. Many newly arrived immigrants are highly skilled and wish to leave temporary shelters quickly. They only need to obtain their work permits to start working and provide for their families, stated the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ first citizen.