Somchai

Somchai was born in Thailand to a family that would soon be torn apart. His father abandoned the family when Somchai was very young, leaving his mother to raise him alone. With no support from her husband, Somchai's mother made the difficult decision to seek a better life in America.

When Somchai was just 8 years old, his mother brought him to the United States. They settled in California, where his mother worked multiple jobs to support them. Somchai grew up American in many ways, attending school and making friends, but always with the uncertainty of his immigration status hanging over him.

Growing up undocumented in California, Somchai faced limitations that his peers didn't understand. He couldn't get a driver's license, couldn't work legally, and couldn't apply for financial aid for college. The fear of deportation was a constant presence in his life.

Legal Aid took on Somchai's case, recognizing that his father's abandonment in Thailand qualified him for SIJS. The legal team documented that his father had never provided any support and had completely abandoned the family. They filed the necessary petitions and guided Somchai through the process.

In 2022, Somchai's SIJS petition was approved, and he received a work permit. For the first time, he could legally work and contribute to his family's finances. The approval was life-changing for both Somchai and his mother.

Somchai is now working legally while continuing his education. He helps support his mother, who sacrificed so much to give him a chance at a better life. He is grateful every day for the opportunity to work and build a future.