Press Release
Posted:
Washington – Today, Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) announced that UpValley Family Centers of Napa County is receiving a $179,000 grant from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services as part of the Fiscal Year 2023 Citizenship and Integration Grant Program.
“Our country is made better thanks to the immeasurable contributions of those who came to our country in pursuit of the American Dream,” said Thompson. “UpValley Family Centers throughout Napa County help families and individuals in our region achieve a healthy and successful life by providing services to help lawfully present immigrants prepare for citizenship. Proud to that UpValley Family Centers are receiving this grant to carry on their incredible work.”
“As a result of this funding, we will be able to directly assist 120 people in filing applications for their US citizenship over the next two years,” said Jenny Ocon, executive director of the UpValley Family Centers. “Additionally, the grant will support Napa Valley Adult Education to provide free citizenship classes in Calistoga and St. Helena – reducing access barriers for upvalley communities.”
Up Valley Family Centers of Napa County will use this award to expand the range of citizenship preparation services available to lawfully present immigrants, helping these individuals prepare for U.S. citizenship and fostering their integration into American society.
USCIS has focused on reaching remote, underserved, or vulnerable communities through the grant program. USCIS accepted applications under four Notices of Funding Opportunities. In addition to the traditional programs that fund citizenship and English acquisition classes, the 2023 grants include opportunities for creative and innovative approaches to preparing immigrants for naturalization.