The government of the city of Denver, located in the state of Colorado, United States, has launched a support program for migrants that offers shelter, food and training, but it is necessary to meet specific requirements to apply.

Recently, migrant communities in cities such as Denver, Chicago and New York, which have been welcoming to foreign inhabitants, have experienced sudden and significant growth. Faced with this situation, the Colorado city administration has begun the implementation of a new plan last month, with the purpose of providing crucial assistance to migrants who require it.

According to the official website of the Denver government, the assistance program is intended for people who were in the shelter system of the local Newcomers Program on April 10, 2024. In this context, the participants of the program are Refugee applicants who are not immediately eligible for work authorization, so must wait at least 180 days after submitting their asylum application to obtain such authorization.

To apply, applicants must enroll in a prior work authorization preparation program called WorkReady, where they will be able to connect with case managers to ensure they are on the right path. Additionally, it is highlighted on the website that those who arrived after the established date will receive temporary accommodation and assistance to coordinate their transfer to another destination where they can connect with existing support networks.

What does the Denver migrant assistance program include?

Among the opportunities offered by the Refugee Applicant Assistance Program are the possibility of accessing language education, exploration of possible career paths, diverse and industry-recognized training, and learning opportunities in work environments.

Along these lines, the Denver government points out that applicants will also receive free legal services to present their asylum applications, as well as assistance with housing and food for six months while they wait for their work permits.

During a press conference cited by NBC News, the town's mayor, Mike Johnston, referred to the motivation behind the program: "Our purpose was to transform what some perceived as a crisis into an opportunity. We have individuals who come to the city and who want to work, who have skills, talent and discipline. Likewise, we have employers in the city who are eager to find workers and want to hire them urgently.

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