Pennsylvania Immigration Resource Center

Philadelphia Bar Foundation Grant Impact

Pennsylvania Immigrant Resource Center (PIRC) provides free legal services to idigent, vulnerable immigrants in the community and in immigration detention who face limited access to legal counsel, legal education, and outside resources. PIRC serves immigrants escaing violence or past persecution, and immigrants from across Pennsylvania who face possible removal from the United States. Under this administration's current immigration policies, PIRC must respond to an increased demand for services in an increasingly hostile legal environment. PIRC's ability to help immigrants remain in the community and with their families is possible through the support of funders who believe in access to justice for all persons. The Philadelphia Bar Foundation is a committed partner in this mission, and the Bar Foundation's support has made it possible for PIRC to continue providing critical legal services, creating transformative impact in the lives of vulnerable immigrants. 

Summary List of Programs and Services

Provides direct legal services, pro se assistance, education, and referrals for pro bono representation in two major program areas: Detained Programs – removal/deportation proceedings with an emphasis on immigrants who have fled torture or fear being returned to their home country, who have mental challenges, and other vulnerable populations; and Community Programs – victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and other crimes.

Summary List of Priorities for Client Intake

Immigration Law: removal/deportation proceedings with an emphasis on asylum, withholding of removal and protection under the Convention Against Torture; forms of relief with an emphasis on VAWA, T and U visas