Parish Companion Program

“As Catholics we are called to take concrete measures to overcome the misunderstanding, ignorance, competition, and fear that stand in the way of genuinely welcoming the stranger in our midst and enjoying the communion that is our destiny as Children of God.” (USCCB, Welcoming the Stranger Among Us: Unity in Diversity)

The Parish Companion Program was designed to accompany parishioners who are in the final stages of immigration removal proceedings, or who are at risk of removal. It may also be used by parish staff or by individuals seeking to understand their own situation better and what actions might be helpful. Please note that the materials herein are not legal advice but are intended to help someone understand his/her rights in different situations. We recommend that anyone at risk of removal consult with a qualified legal representative.   

The program helps address relevant concerns for when an individual is concerned that she/he might be removed from the United States.  

Parish Companions

When selecting who will be trained as a companion, a parish should consider the following criteria:

• Companions need to be willing to ask questions, learn from the family seeking assistance, and hold this information in confidence.
• Companions need to understand that there are a lot of factors that impact every case, and each case is unique.
• Companions need to be flexible, understanding, and willing to follow up.
• Helpful characteristics of companions include confidence, tenaciousness, empathy, desire to learn, and available time.

Time commitment for companions:

• Attend an initial training session and remain current on updates.
• Meet with the individual / family a few hours a week once you are connected.
• Attend follow-up meetings of trained companions to share experiences and learn from each other.

Potential concerns and topics to be addressed with each family seeking assistance:

• What does the family want help with? What support can the companion provide?
• Where is this individual in the immigration process?
• Has the individual engaged with a lawyer? Does he /she have pending legal fees or loans? 
• Does the individual have to pay a bond to be released from detention?
• Does the family need someone to accompany him / her to immigration (ICE) appointments?
• Are there children to be considered?
• Does the individual own property or have bank accounts?
• To what situation is the individual going when they are returned to their home country or is he / she being deported to a different country?
• What support will be needed for family remaining in the United States?

Know Your Rights

Below are a few available resources from trusted immigrant rights advocacy groups:  

Immigrant Legal Resource Center

• Print free “red cards” in 39 different languages. 

Catholic Legal Immigration Network (CLINIC)

• Download "I am Exercising my Rights" cards in English and Spanish.
• A Guide to Workplace Rights for Immigrants. Last updated 20 December 2016.

Advocates for Basic Legal Equality, Inc. (ABLE)

• ABLE has the following videos in English and Spanish.
  • Know Your Rights
  • Prepare Your Family’s Plan
  • If Immigration Comes to Your Door
  • Your Rights Outside the Home 
• What to Do If You Encounter the Police or Immigration. See pages 3-4, last updated in 2025.
• Protecting Children’s Rights During ICE Encounters. 1-page flyer in 6 different languages.

CASA

• Protect Yourself and Your Family During Immigration Raids. Detailed information on your rights in English, Spanish, and French. Updated January 2025.