The Justice for Our Neighbors Ministry (JFON) program initiated by the General Board of Global Ministries in 1999 has served thousands of immigrants throughout the United States. The United Methodist Community on Relief (UMCOR) sponsors the program with 24 clinic sites operating nationwide. JFON-West Michigan was formed in 2004 with a site hosted at Grand Rapids First United Methodist Church. In 2005, a second sited hosted by First United Methodist Church of Holland was opened.
JFON was created as a response to the increasingly complex immigration regulations stemming from the Immigration Reform and Immigration Act of 1996. September 11th and the Patriot Act has exacerbated the situation, causing backlogs on new and existing applications and an increase in deportation orders.
The JFON network effectively provides outreach to the community as well as a strong forum for advocacy. JFON-West Michigan has responded to many requests from local congregations and community organizations to speak to their members and educate them on current political debates and pending legislation. JFON-West Michigan is also preparing to respond to the tremendous need for legal services that will occur if Congress passes immigration reform that includes a legalization program.
JFON Response
Our clients are served by a professional immigration attorney who remains with their case until relief is granted or all avenues are exhausted. Since opening our doors in 2004, we have served over 750 clients from 54 nations. The volunteers who work in the clinics hear the real life stories and see the moral issues of immigration in a much clearer light.
While JFON is part of UMCOR - each region is responsible for raising its own operating funds. If you like what JFON-West Michigan is doing for the community, we encourage you to make a donation.
JFON-West Michigan would like to acknowedge the following foundations and organizations for their support:
Bethany Christian Services - on-going support since 2004
Holland Zeeland Community Foundation - 2008 grant
Michigan State Bar Foundation - 2008 AOJ grant
Sebastian Foundation - supporter since 2006
UMC - West Michigan Conference - 2006-present DCOM Grant