The Batavia phone line is a number that folks within immigration detention can call to speak with a volunteer from Justice for Migrant Families. This is right for you if you can either commit to a weekly 2 hour long shift or be on a substitute list, if you can use your personal phone (your number will remain anonymous), and if you are able to keep notes and reference online materials. A second language is helpful but not required.

Build solidarity with people who have just been released from immigrant detention and are en route to their final destination with friends, family and community. People detained by immigration after arduous journeys are often shipped thousands of miles away from their communities and released without basic necessities and information. Our team volunteers their time to meet people at the bus station and supports them in the final leg of their journey. There are many different roles available for release support.

 In person: This is right for you if you can occasionally answer the call to go to the Buffalo bus station or the Buffalo airport to help a newly released person navigate travel. Conversational level in a language other than English is a plus but not necessary.  Releases usually happen between 3 - 7 PM and airport help is usually needed in the evenings and early mornings.  In the training we will cover the process of assisting someone, available materials and resources, and build community with other volunteers.

Remote: This is right for you if you are comfortable with your phone, texting apps, and are at a conversational level in Spanish.

More info soon!

Our Pen Pal program connects folks detained in Batavia with volunteers to write letters and provide connection to the isolation of immigration detention.

Books for All members are on a rolling list for book requests from people in immigrant detention in Batavia. When someone requests a book while in detention, JFMF share the request on a rolling basis. You can accept or decline each request; if you accept, you are responsible for choosing, buying and shipping the book. People in Batavia really treasure this form of connection.

The Organizing Team works on education and outreach, as well as skill building and relationship building, to create systemic change. The Organizing Team is composed of staff, members, volunteers, and allied organizations, and engages in skill building and relationship building. The Team meet monthly virtually, with many more opportunities for in person, one on one or virtual participation.

In addition to the opportunities listed above, we are always on the lookout for people with all kinds of diverse skills, abilities and experience: translators with Spanish, French, Portuguese, or Arabic proficiency; graphic designers; drivers for families and volunteers; fundraisers; volunteer coordinators; educators. We welcome people of all abilities and statuses.