A Family’s Journey Toward Hope and Security: How One Mother Found Peace Through Catholic Charities

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When “Sara” (name changed to protect her privacy) walked into a local parish for a Family Preparedness presentation earlier this year, she carried more than just questions — she carried the quiet weight of fear. As a mother of five U.S. citizen children and part of a mixed-status family, every day brings a mixture of love and uncertainty. What would happen if she needed to travel unexpectedly? Would her children be able to leave the country with her? Would they be safe?

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At that presentation, Sara learned something simple yet profoundly important — having passports for her children and herself could be a key step toward keeping her family safe and together, no matter what challenges arise. Yet, she had never traveled outside of the United States and had no idea where to begin. The passport application process seemed daunting and expensive, and she worried that the cost and complexity might put this essential step out of reach.

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That’s when she reached out to Catholic Charities Immigration Legal Services (CCILS).

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From the moment Sara connected with the program, she felt supported and understood. The staff guided her through every step — explaining the passport process, preparing all six applications, and even scheduling appointments for her family at the local USPS office. What once seemed overwhelming suddenly felt possible.

 

Sara remembers the relief she felt when she learned that this vital service, application support, would be provided free of charge. “I had found someone else who could help,” she shared, “but they were charging $360, not including the passport fees. I just didn’t know how I could afford that.”

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Thanks to CCILS, that burden was lifted. Now, as she prepares to finalize the process Sara says she finally feels a sense of peace. “Knowing that my children and I will have these important documents makes me feel prepared and protected,” she said with gratitude.

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For Sara and so many families like hers, Catholic Charities is more than a service provider — it’s a lifeline. It offers hope where fear once lived, and clarity where confusion once stood. It turns uncertainty into empowerment.

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Every passport form, every appointment scheduled, every hour of compassionate guidance adds up to something life-changing — not just for one family, but for our entire community.

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Your generosity makes stories like Sara’s possible. When you support Catholic Charities, you’re not just funding programs — you’re helping mothers like Sara breathe easier, helping children feel safer, and helping families build the secure futures they deserve.

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Together, we can ensure that hope remains stronger than fear.

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Donate today to help sustain Catholic Charities Immigration Legal Services and keep transforming lives — one family, one story, one act of compassion at a time.