Standing up for students, reuniting families

The Immigrant Family Defense Fund helps parents and children in California schools facing the threat of deportation access qualified legal representation, and those in immigration detention get released on bond. This includes long-time California residents, newly arriving families, and unaccompanied minors enrolled in California schools.

Every $25 we raise for our revolving bond fund secures a month of freedom for a detained student, parent or sibling. Join us today in keeping families together.

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1 in 8 students in California schools have at least one undocumented parent

Immigrant communities across the country are experiencing a surge in detention and deportation of both children and adults. Nation-wide, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers arrested 40% more people during the first nine months of 2017 than the same period in 2016. Once a family member is detained by ICE, removal proceedings can take several months or even years to complete. Prolonged periods of detention can push families into poverty and create tremendous emotional strain for both parents and children.

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IFDF has been one of the organizations that has made the most direct difference in the lives of Alameda County Public Defender Clients. It has served as a source of hope for actual reunification of clients with their children and families where there otherwise would be none. Our clients come from low-income communities and struggle financially – but no child should have to suffer separation from a parent for the sole reason of a parent’s financial inability to pay a bond or pay application fees. IFDF is making a difference in the lives of immigrant families and communities every single day. I honestly don’t know what we would do without them.

Raha Jorjani, Director, Immigration Representation Project, Alameda County Public Defender’s Office

We help keep families together through

Legal Access

We leverage trusted school networks to connect families facing the threat of deportation to qualified legal services.

Immigration Bond

We help get parents, siblings and students placed in immigration detention released on bond through our revolving fund.

Community Support

We match each family with a trained parent or teacher volunteer to provide support throughout their case.

Immigration and Community Resources

Visit our Resource Hub

Legal Services

Find a qualified immigration attorney or an upcoming free clinic or workshop organized by one of our legal service partners.

Family Preparedness

Make a plan for your family in case a parent, sibling or student is detained by immigration enforcement.

Resources for Educators

Materials for teachers and administrators interested in supporting immigrant families in their schools and classrooms.

Sanctuary Districts

Oakland, along with a number of other school districts, have adopted policies to protect immigrant families. Learn more.