Problem
The Kaiser Family Foundation has identified that immigrants often feeling unwelcome in the United State. For example, fear and anxiety run high among immigrant families, including those with legal status. Additionally, due to heightened anxiety and uncertainty, their daily living can become more challenging, and some parents have stated that finding work in the present atmosphere is more difficult, putting additional financial stress on families. Furthermore, after the 2016 election, parents and physicians reported a dramatic increase in acts of racism and prejudice.
Solution
Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird released Lincoln’s Immigrant Welcoming and Belonging Plan. This effort aims to provide targeted supportive services to help immigrants and refugees grow and prosper together with their new community. The plan includes expanding existing services, such as legal resources and education support, as well as developing new programs, such as establishing a welcome center with dedicated staff to provide support for housing, health, and economic opportunity.