The Urgent Response team is critical to WICIR’s work in Washtenaw County. We respond to the community’s needs when we are notified either through the emergency hotline (734-355-2707) or through personal networks. The response varies depending on the situation and requests directly from the people affected. Additionally, as there is increasing ICE presence in the area, we do our best to observe, assess, gather data, and then alert the community to the activity.
Such responses may include:
- court accompaniment
- immigration check-in support
- observe ICE presence
- provide resources for legal support
- financial assistance (when funds are available)
- emotional support
- connections to social services
Since 2008, WICIR has extensively documented every case it has received. This is particularly unique and important as we are able to assess trends and impact in the area. This information is often used anonymously to inform local advocates, immigrant rights organizations, policy-makers, and others so that they are well informed about current happenings.
Over the years, we have documented over 685 cases; half of which have included the detainment or deportation of one or more adults, resulting in hundreds of children losing primary parents and over 1,000 children losing other providing family members.