Thinley Wangchuk
4:42:18
I would like to thank chairperson Alexa Viles and the members of the committee on immigration for the opportunity to testify today.
4:42:26
I am Finmaye Wong Chuk, data analysis and communications coordinator at the Korean American Family Service Center, KAFSC.
4:42:34
For over 36 years, KAFSC has provided life saving services to immigrant survivors of gender based violence, domestic violence, and other forms of violence, along with their children.
4:42:46
Our services include counseling, case management, transitional housing, economic empowerment initiatives, youth programs, and 247 access to our bilingual hotline and emergency shelter.
4:42:59
KFSC is also a member of the collective, the only coalition of culturally specific gender justice organizations in New York City.
4:43:07
Each year, KFSC serves over 3,000 individuals.
4:43:12
In 2024, KFSC responded to over 5,000 calls related to gender based violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and trafficking through our 24 hour hotline.
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98% of our clients identify as immigrants, and 98% live below the poverty line.
4:43:32
A significant portion of our clients are undocumented and face barriers to accessing basic services.
4:43:39
Recognizing these needs, we have expanded our programs to include mental health services, cash assistance, public health benefits, and more.
4:43:47
Given the changing political landscape, the upcoming administration's policy shifts may risk, may pose risks to funding for immigrant services, restrict pathways to legal status, and create heightened fear of deportation within immigrant communities.
4:44:04
These uncertainties compound the existing struggles and barriers faced by our clients, particularly undocumented survivors who remain excluded from resources.
4:44:16
To address these barriers, KFSC, along with our community based partners, urges the city to invest in culturally and linguistically competent services by prioritizing funding for community based organizations that provide culturally tailored, language accessible, and survivor cent survivor centered approaches.
4:44:36
Lastly, implementing inclusive local policies that protect undocumented survivors and ensure access to basic income, health care, and other support is imperative.
4:44:47
KFSC remains committed to working collaboratively with the city council and our partners to address this issue and pressing the pressing needs of immigrant survivors and their families.
