"I had felt so alone when I moved here. I don’t speak any English. I felt discriminated against because of the language I speak and the color of my skin. I lived in fear. But I don’t anymore. Columbia County Sanctuary Movement has made me feel like I belong. I feel loved and held, and I know I can do anything."
Welcome Home: Comprehensive Support for Immigrants
At Columbia County Sanctuary Movement (CCSM), we see the whole person, not just immediate needs. Every newcomer is welcomed as part of a community. Our integrated programming empowers immigrants to access essential services, build connections, and take leadership roles.
First Steps: Getting Started
- Enrollment in Comida para la Gente food program
- School enrollment for children
- Provision of mutual aid funds, clothing, and other essential resources
- Connection to local support networks
DMV & Driving Support
- Preliminary screenings for driving permits
- Assistance with permit tests – Locations: Hudson (walk-in), Catskill (appointment only)
- Help finding 5-hour driving courses
- Scheduling and accompaniment for road tests
Legal Services Access
- Transportation to and from legal appointments at our office
- Referrals to trusted legal service providers
- Accompaniment to family and traffic court appointments and interpretation support
Immigration Support
- Transportation and interpretation for biometrics appointments
- Transportation for ICE check-ins
- Post-raid support
- Commissary coordination
- Locating detained individuals
- Mutual aid application assistance
- Referrals to external services
Family Support & Case Management
- Intake and resource navigation
- Helping find community resources
- Ongoing case management
Community Leadership & Engagement
- Dia de los Muertos celebrations
- Latinx Festival planning
- Mujeres Victoriosas and other programs
Empowerment grows when everyone can contribute their gifts and culture.
Impact
On average, CCSM serves about 45 unique community members each month. Through our integrated service and organizing model, we ensure every newcomer finds a home in Columbia County.
How to Access Services
Phone: (518) 303-3848
