CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) — Following the designation of a Certified Welcoming Place nearly a year ago, Champaign City Council accepted a grant to provide services for asylum-seeking migrant refugees. A portion of the grant — about $709,705 — will be awarded to the New American Welcome Center at the University YMCA.

More than 37,000 migrants have arrived in Illinois since 2022, after an effort by border states to send asylum seekers to northern states. Since 2022, the Illinois Department of Human Services has partnered with the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus to provide millions of dollars to cities where migrants are now living. 

Akua Forkuo-Sekyere, the Director at New American, said that the grant will allow them to continue funding their program. "It truly is exciting to be able to have funding to support new arrivals in our community," said Forkuo-Sekyere.

Some of their main services include legal services for immigrants and family services for newcomers.

She said they received he same grant last year, which means they are able to continue the same services. "To be able to receive it this year means that will have a continuity of services, which is very exciting. We'll be able to provide direct assistance to families in their most vulnerable times of need."

Forkuo-Sekyere said that they had the opportunity to partner with organizations in the area who provide services for the unhoused community in Champaign and create a joint application. "The issues that we focus on intersect, because housing is such a big need in our community," she explained. 

The money will be allocated to organizations at a future council meeting.

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