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Policy Updates – 10/22/2026

DHS indefinitely extended TPS for Ukraine and Sudan on Monday; those with protections will retain status for the time being. TPS for these countries was set to expire on October 19, but the agency declined to announce any decision on the future of over 100,000 people impacted, only saying that an announcement “will be made … Continued

Advancing Policy Solutions for Immigrant Mental Health

Immigrant and refugee families in Massachusetts are carrying an enormous weight. Increased enforcement, the loss of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for many families, including many with children who are U.S. citizens, and constant federal policy shifts are taking a real toll on mental health. Meanwhile, people seeking help face long wait times, language gaps, insurance … Continued

TPS for Ukraine and Sudan still valid

TPS for Ukraine and Sudan still valid Temporary Protected Status (TPS) protections are still in effect for TPS holders from Ukraine and Sudan. The TPS designation for Ukraine and Sudan was set to expire on October 19, 2026. However, the Trump Administration has not announced whether the designation will be terminated or extended. Until further … Continued
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Immigrant Children, Youth, and Families in Massachusetts (March 2024)

Approximately 20% of Massachusetts’ population is aged 18 and under. Six percent of children living in Massachusetts are foreign born, and nearly a third of children in the state have at least one foreign born parent. Learn more here: MIRA – Immigrant Children Youth and Families 2024
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Refugee resettlement, benefits and support programs

Individuals granted refugee status overseas by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security are brought to the U.S. by the Department of State, in partnership with the Office of Refugee Resettlement and refugee resettlement agencies across the U.S. For the first 30 days after a refugee’s arrival in Massachusetts, resettlement agencies  provide support with basic needs, … Continued
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English classes & adult education

English and basic education classes for adults are offered at libraries, schools, nonprofits and other sites all across Massachusetts. Demand for these programs is so great that some sites have significant wait lists. To find a program near you, start with these two resources: Find adult literacy and English classes at nearby libraries: This site, … Continued
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Health care, social services and domestic violence

MIRA works to ensure immigrant access to healthcare and other human services. This section provides resources for immigrant populations on access to affordable health care, getting help for sexual assault and domestic violence and finding assistance with other human services such as housing and food assistance. These three resources provide information about important assistance available to low-income Massachusetts … Continued
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Obtaining a driver’s license under the Work & Family Mobility Act

First Steps Prepare your documents. Start a learners permit application online and make an appointment with the RMV. At the appointment day or after, do the written test to obtain your learner’s permit. Schedule the road test!   Don’t be fooled by fake RMV websites and people offering overpriced assistance. The entire application process costs … Continued
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National Security Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2024 (Border Deal) (February 2024)

After many months of closed-door discussions, Senate negotiators on Sunday February 4 finally released text for the National Security Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2024. This bill began as a request from the Biden Administration for billions in funding to support Ukraine, Israel, and other allies across the globe, but Republicans insisted that any such funding … Continued
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Massachusetts HomeBASE Housing Assistance

HomeBASE provides housing assistance to families who are eligible for EA Emergency Family Shelter. As part of the HomeBASE program, you and your family may be eligible to receive up to $30,000 over a two-year period, with the possibility of a third year of assistance. See our fact sheet in English.
Community Members Service Providers English Housing & Benefits
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How to support new arrivals (2023)

Massachusetts has welcomed thousands of new arrivals to the state in the past couple of years. More than 6,000 newly arrived immigrant families are currently residing in emergency assistance (EA) shelters, and that number grows daily. Systems that support newly arrived immigrants are working hard to meet the need, with staff and resources stretched beyond … Continued
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