We sat down with Organisation Trans d’Haiti (OTRAH) last year, a trailblazing organization that championed…

Haitian-Led Nonprofits with a Focus on Immigration
No human being is illegal. That is a fundamental principle of my faith, and it guides my commitment to immigration reform. We were strangers once, too.
— Barack Obama, 44th President of the United States
Haitian migration is shaped by a mix of economic, political, and social challenges, often forcing individuals to navigate complex immigration systems and face legal precarity. In this context, community-based nonprofits are essential in supporting immigrants, especially those with undocumented status. These organizations provide vital services such as legal assistance, language education, and social support, helping migrants adjust to life in their host countries and overcome significant barriers.
Beyond practical services, these nonprofits create safe spaces for connection and belonging, empowering individuals who may feel isolated or vulnerable. By advocating for and supporting these organizations, we ensure that immigrants in the U.S., Canada, and France have access to the resources they need to thrive. Nonprofits specializing in immigration services are more than support systems—they are lifelines, fostering resilience and equity within our communities.
Here are some prominent Haitian-led nonprofits focusing on immigration:
In the United States
- Haitian Women for Haitian Refugees (HWHR): This organization advocates for the rights of Haitian immigrants and refugees, particularly those facing deportation
- Haitian American Lawyers Association of New York (HALANY): This group promotes the interests of Haitian-American lawyers while advocating for the rights of Haitian immigrants.
- Haitian-Americans United for Progress (HAUP): HAUP offers legal services, language classes, and social support tailored to the needs of Haitian immigrants.
- The Haitian Bridge Alliance (HBA) is a 501(c)(3) grassroots nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for fair and humane immigration policies. HBA focuses particularly on Black migrants, the Haitian community, women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and survivors of human rights abuses. It provides humanitarian, legal, and social services to help these individuals navigate the complexities of immigration processes.
- The Haiti Immigration Project (HIP) is a community-based nonprofit established to empower Haitian immigrants. HIP offers a range of services, including immigration legal assistance, family reunification support, and aid with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) applications. The organization aims to enhance the quality of life for Haitian immigrants, helping them adapt and thrive in their new environments.
- Immigration Family Services Institute (IFSI): Founded by Dr. Geralde V. Gabeau, the Immigration Family Services Institute serves the Haitian community by providing legal aid, housing assistance, and basic necessities to newly arrived immigrants. IFSI is actively involved in helping families secure their immigration status and meet their immediate needs, especially during challenging transitions.
- Communities United for Status and Protection (CUSP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for the rights and well-being of all immigrant communities, not limited to any specific nationality. It works collaboratively with various community partners to provide essential legal and social services while advocating for the rights of undocumented individuals within the immigrant community. ** Note CUSP is Not Haitian led, however, does work collectively with Haitian-led organizations
In Canada
- Maison D’Haïti, over the past 40 years, the work of Maison d’Haïti reflects the very life of the Haitian community in Quebec and highlights its involvement in sensitive issues affecting both Haitians and Quebec society.
In France
- Collectif Haïti de France (CHF), officially established in 1992, the collective sprang from a movement advocating democracy and opposing the brutal Duvalier government in Haiti. Two other objectives were raising awareness of what was happening in Haiti and defending human rights—especially for Haitians who had left their nation and required assistance to find residence in France. These solidarity goals set the groundwork for the mission of the CHF. Today it is a unique network in France. Composing 65 member associations and 50 individual members, all striving to advance fundamental rights and solidarity-driven development for Haiti, it combines Members of CHF pledge common principles and aims based on three main action areas.
- The BAAM offers several free administrative, social, and legal support services. The BAAM will assist you in learning your rights as a migrant living in France as well as how to obtain employment and access healthcare. It also gives access to courses teaching French. ** Note BAAM is Not Haitian led, however, is an inclusive organization.
- Gisti (Group of Information and Support for Immigrants) offers a variety of legal support services, including visas, residency permits, asylum petitions, citizenship applications, and social rights. Gisti offers all of its services by phone, which may be reached Monday through Friday between 3 and 6 p.m., as well as Wednesdays and Fridays between 10 a.m. and noon. ** Note Gisti is Not Haitian led, however, is an inclusive organization.
- La Halte Humanitaire is a day center run by the city of Paris. It is available to everyone, regardless of their immigration status. La Halte also provides legal aid and psychological support. ** Note La Halte is Not Haitian led, however, is an inclusive organization.
In the Dominican Republic
- Movimiento Socio Cultural para los Trabajadores Haitianos (MOSCTHA), has been serving Haitian immigrants and Dominicans of Haitian descent for over two decades. This organization operates in more than 30 bateyes (work camps), providing essential services such as health care, legal assistance, and education.
- Project Esperanza, is a nonprofit organization based in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. It primarily serves the Haitian refugee and immigrant population, focusing on areas such as education, social aid, and community development. The organization runs two schools designed for Haitian immigrant children and offers a range of social aid services, including providing housing, food, and family support for vulnerable youth.
- ASCALA is a nonprofit operating across the Dominican Republic’s Eastern Region. It advocates for the rights of immigrants and refugees by offering legal advice, assistance with obtaining residency or citizenship, and help in preparing necessary documentation. Besides legal services, ASCALA focuses on education-based initiatives, equipping children and adults with literacy skills needed to integrate into Dominican society
- The Batey Relief Alliance is a U.S.-based charity that plays a significant role in supporting Haitian communities in the Dominican Republic. It addresses the socioeconomic difference between Dominican bateyes and the wider society by providing clean water, health services, and empowerment programs. BRA’s initiatives include installing water systems, running health centers, and engaging women in agriculture-based economic activities.
Supporting Haitian-led nonprofits focused on immigration is crucial for several reasons:
- Essential Services: These organizations provide invaluable services to immigrant communities, helping them navigate the complex immigration system.
- Advocacy: Many of these nonprofits work tirelessly to advocate for the rights of immigrants, promoting equitable policies and opposing discriminatory practices.
- Cultural Awareness: Supporting these nonprofits enhances cultural understanding within the community, educating the public about the experiences and challenges faced by immigrant populations.
- Community Strengthening: By fostering connections among immigrants, these organizations help build stronger, more cohesive communities.
Nonprofits specializing in immigration services are vital in helping Haitian migrants and other immigrant communities navigate the challenges of settling in a new country. By supporting these organizations, we can empower immigrants to overcome barriers, build better futures, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
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