New Immigration Policy: Green Card Applicants Must Leave US to Adjust Status

Foreigners seeking to adjust their immigration status in the United States to secure green cards will have to do so from outside the country via the State Department, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said on Friday, in a move criticized by aid groups, policy analysts and immigration attorneys.

The policy ends a 60-year precedent and requires anyone in the US on a temporary visa who wishes to apply for permanent residency to return to their home country. Critics argue it will separate families and endanger vulnerable individuals.

Read full story on The Guardian →

ACCRA RESTAURANT NOW ACCEPTS SNAP/EBT FOR HOT MEALS

Accra Restaurant has received FNS Approval and is now among 75 restaurants operating RMP in New York State according to the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, OTDA.

Bronx, NY – Accra Restaurant, a staple in the African community, has received approval from the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) to participate in New York State’s Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). This designation allows eligible Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients to use their benefits to purchase hot meals at the restaurant.

Facilitated by Welcome To America Inc. (W2A), Accra Restaurant and Queens-based Shirazi Cafe are among 75 restaurants now enrolled in the program. W2A, a grassroots organization supporting immigrant business owners and vulnerable communities, played a critical role in guiding both establishments through the application process.

IMMIGRANTS NYC SETS MINIMUM WAGE FOR FOOD DELIVERY WORKERS

The NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) has set a minimum pay rate for app‑based restaurant delivery workers. Starting July 12, 2023, apps must pay at least $17.96 per hour for all connected time, or approximately $0.50 per minute of trip time, not including tips.

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WELCOME 2 AMERICA AND FOODSTREAM LAUNCH AFGHAN REFUGEE RELIEF

Welcome To America and Foodstream have teamed up to provide relief for families arriving in New York City from war‑torn Afghanistan. The partners aim to procure nourishing, culturally relevant meals and fresh produce, as well as technology and internet access for children.

Support the effort →

BRONX COMMUNITY RELIEF EFFORT LAUNCHED DURING COVID-19

The Bronx Community Relief Effort was launched to address immediate needs of Bronx residents during COVID-19, raising $10 million to support food insecurity, small business relief, PPE, technology gaps, and more. W2A was a proud partner.