In response to recent changes in U.S. federal immigration policies, the nonprofit organization Venezuelans and Immigrants Aid (VIA) has intensified its efforts to ensure that migrant communities have access to reliable and timely information.

“The key to protecting yourself under the current immigration policies is to stay informed and act promptly,” say Niurka Meléndez and Héctor Arguinzones, co-founders and co-directors of VIA. To combat fear and misinformation, the organization has strengthened its education and assistance programs, providing essential resources such as the safety plan and document checklist compiled by the New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG) to be used in case of detention or raids. Additionally, VIA has created informative videos explaining executive orders issued by the U.S. government and their impact on immigrants while also streaming “Poniéndonos al día” (Keeping Up to Date), a weekly online program designed to counter misinformation.

“The immigrant community has access to resources and allied organizations willing to help, but it is essential to take the initiative, meet legal deadlines, and stay informed daily,” emphasize VIA’s directors.

Expanding Access to Information
As part of these efforts, VIA has organized more than seven online discussions via Instagram and YouTube and in-person talks featuring the organization’s directors. Furthermore, over 50 informative posts have been shared on Instagram to warn and guide the community through the current migration challenges.

Miracle Mondays: A Safe Haven for Migrants
One of VIA’s most impactful initiatives is Miracle Mondays, in-person events providing legal guidance, community support, and essential resources to hundreds of migrants at St. Paul & St. Andrew United Methodist Church in New York City.

The first session of the year, held on Monday, January 27, welcomed over 120 attendees, who received legal counsel from Rebecca Press and Terry Lawson, attorneys from Co-Counsel.

Legal experts such as Guillermo Nolivos of The Nolivos Firm and Victoria Gámez have also participated in online discussions and are committed to keeping the migrant community informed about immigration policy changes affecting their legal status in the U.S.

Emotional Support and Legal Guidance
Beyond providing legal information, VIA has also promoted emotional support spaces for those navigating the challenging path to immigration regularization. For more than six years, the “Soporte Entre Pares” (Peer Support) program has been a safe haven for forced migrants, offering emotional support, a sense of community, and guidance in times of uncertainty.

The organization has also addressed the mental health impact of misinformation, hosting discussions like “How to Protect Our Mental Health in the Age of Fake News” with psychologist Liliana Torella. These sessions analyze the emotional effects of media manipulation and the “brain-rot” phenomenon, while providing strategies to protect oneself from information overload or “infoxication.”

Protecting Against Immigration Scams
In a climate where desperation can lead migrants to make risky decisions, VIA has emphasized the importance of avoiding immigration-related scams.

“Your immigration future is too important to entrust to just anyone,” the organization warns. “A paralegal, notary, or ‘form preparer’ is not a licensed attorney in the U.S. and is not qualified to handle your case. Only a licensed lawyer can legally represent you and offer a real and secure immigration strategy.”

A Commitment to Reliable Information and Community Support
With the success of these initiatives, VIA remains committed to organizing both in-person and virtual activities to ensure that the migrant community in New York has access to reliable information and essential resources.

Miracle Mondays will continue to grow as a fundamental pillar of support and guidance for those navigating the complexities of the immigration process.

In times of uncertainty, “information is power,” and community is our greatest strength. VIA reaffirms its commitment to providing trustworthy guidance and tangible support to those most in need.