Immigration Resources for Families

(January 31, 2025) Headlines across the nation continue to report on deportations and immigration enforcement actions, impacting countless children and their families. Children may be feeling confused and angry. Here are a few resources for how to talk to your young children about what is happening.

How to talk to children about immigration issues

For providers serving immigrant families in Kent County, here are local organizations, programs, and services that can help you and your families navigate early childhood resources. Whether you need assistance with legal support, early childhood education, healthcare, or community connections, these resources are here to ensure every child and family feels welcome, supported, and empowered.


Immigrant Support Services:

  • Immigrant Connection at City Life Church
    • Offers low-cost immigration legal services
    • Serves Kent County
    • Areas of assistance include: Adjustment of Status, DACA, Family-based petitions, Naturalization/Citizenship, U visas and T visas
  • Justice For Our Neighbors (Grand Rapids Office)
    • Free, high-quality immigration legal services
    • Assists with: Asylum applications, Employment authorization, Removal hearings, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status

Community Resources:

  • West Michigan Friendship Center
    • Address: 3665 29th St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512
    • Phone: 616.828.5310
    • Provides drop-in services, free meals, resources, computer use, English support
  • Bethany Christian Services
    • Address: 1050 36th St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508
    • Phone: 616.224.7540
    • Helps refugee and immigrant families adjust to life in the United States. This organization is not at capacity to enroll new refugee families as of January, 2025.
  • Grand Rapids Community Foundation
    • Has a relationship with local Native nations and may be able to direct individuals to appropriate resources.
  • Hispanic Center of West Michigan
    • Offers Family Support Services which include Power of Attorney letters for immigration support.
    • Provide referrals to legal representatives in immigration matters.
    • Collaborates with local groups specializing in legal services and meets with leaders, including the consulate general of Mexico, to address immigration concerns

Early Childhood Resources - Our three early childhood navigators can help navigate families on a number of different of local resources

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