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PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Testimony by Thinley Wangchuk, Data Analysis and Communications Coordinator at Korean American Family Service Center (KAFSC)
4:42:17
ยท
161 sec
Thinley Wangchuk from the Korean American Family Service Center (KAFSC) testified about the organization's work supporting immigrant survivors of gender-based violence and the challenges they face. He emphasized the need for culturally competent services and inclusive policies to protect undocumented survivors in light of potential policy shifts from the upcoming administration.
- KAFSC serves over 3,000 individuals annually, with 98% being immigrants living below the poverty line.
- The organization responded to over 5,000 calls related to various forms of violence through their 24-hour hotline in 2024.
- KAFSC urged the city to invest in culturally and linguistically competent services and implement inclusive local policies to support undocumented survivors.
Thinley Wangchuk
4:42:17
Good afternoon.
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.
4:43:25
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.
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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.
4:44:57
Thank you.