How LSNYC Helped a Mother and Son Achieve Citizenship After Decades of Advocacy

For Nancy and her son, Jorge, becoming U.S. citizens was more than a milestone—it was the culmination of decades of perseverance, and a journey they never had to navigate alone.

For years, Legal Services NYC has stood beside this family, helping them overcome legal obstacles, secure critical benefits, and build a more stable future. Last week, Nancy finally took the oath of citizenship, marking another remarkable milestone in their journey.

LSNYC first represented Jorge in his asylum case, seeking protection in the United States. After his application was denied, the case went through multiple rounds of appeals before Jorge ultimately prevailed. LSNYC continued to support him through the process of obtaining permanent residency and, eventually, citizenship.

Nancy, who also came to the United States as an asylum seeker, pursued citizenship of her own. With LSNYC’s continued support over the years, she finally achieved that milestone. Her citizenship also makes her eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which could provide critical financial support as she faces serious illness and relies on Jorge as her sole source of support.

Over the years, multiple LSNYC advocates supported the family, including helping Nancy access Medicaid more than a decade ago. Their story reflects what makes LSNYC’s work so powerful: we don’t just help people through a single legal crisis. We stay by their side, often for decades, as they navigate new challenges, pursue their dreams, and build a more secure future.