September 17, 2015

CASTRO ANNOUNCES$250K TO SUPPORT CITIZENSHIP PREPARATION SERVICES

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) today announced $250,000 in federal grants from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for San Antonio's Northside Independent School District (NISD) to support citizenship preparation services. NISD will receive the funding through the Citizenship and Integration Grant Program, which provides resources to build community capacity to support lawful permanent residents in the naturalization process.  

"As the grandson of an immigrant who came to the United States as a young orphan and built a life for her family here, I'm grateful for all the opportunities citizenship affords,"? said Rep. Castro. "This funding from USCIS will transform the lives of aspiring Americans in our city. From earning the eligibility to vote, to expanded skills and job training opportunities, becoming an American citizen helps folks more fully integrate into society and add to our nation's strength."

NISD will use today's grant to expand citizenship preparation services available to lawful permanent residents in San Antonio, help those individuals prepare for U.S. citizenship, and foster their integration into American society. Just 40 organizations in 25 states received USCIS resources through this round of Citizenship and Integration Grant awards. 

"It's fitting that we make this announcement on Citizenship Day, as we recognize those who throughout history have become citizens of our great nation," added Rep. Castro. "With this funding, we're helping more San Antonians gain the tools they need to pursue their American Dreams to the fullest extent."

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