Alliance San Diego launched a campaign Wednesday to help DACA recipients and all undocumented immigrants.
Activists and faith leaders from across the country gathered on the front lawn of the San Diego Unified School District's office to show support for the program that many depend on.
San Diego County has approximately 44,000 residents who are eligible for DACA. About 20 percent of undocumented immigrants qualify for some type of immigration relief program.
But many are not aware of their rights. Alliance San Diego said that's where they can help.
"We are inviting people to get screened here in San Diego County. We have resources in San Diego County to provide free legal screenings," said Andrea Guererro, Executive Director of Alliance San Diego.
For one woman, Wednesday's campaign could shape the fate of her husband’s immigration status in the U.S.
"First let me start by saying I love him very much. We have a 10-month-old daughter named Analyn who misses him very much. Since he’s been gone, all she says is 'daddy,'" said Celeste Figueroa.
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Figueroa became overwhelmed with emotion as she spoke about her husband Mario, who was brought to the U.S. when he was just 4-years-old.
Last week, while on his way to work he was stopped and detained by Border Patrol agents in Temecula. Although he does not have a criminal record, he still faces deportation.
Figueroa said Mario did not obtain legal status in the country and his paperwork is currently being processed.
Itzel Guillen said she has benefited tremendously from DACA. She has been able to get her driver’s license and support her family.
"I’ve also been able to provide some sort of stability to my family. I’ve been able to help contribute because I’ve been working," Guillen said.
If you or anyone you know has questions on immigration, DACA, or your rights as an undocumented immigrant you can visit Alliance San Diego's website.
