The city of Atlanta has set aside money to help provide legal assistance for immigrants facing deportation.
Jenna Garland, a spokesperson for Mayor Kasim Reed, said $150,000 from the city’s general fund will go toward the effort. The funding was allocated in the city’s budget that was approved in June.
The city is part of the Vera Institute of Justice’s “SAFE Cities Network.” The New York-based nonprofit will be providing an additional $100,000 in funding.
“Atlanta is proud to be a welcoming city that stands up for the civil and human rights of every person. I am proud to join the launch of the Safe Cities Network and offer – for the first time in our city’s history – legal defense to individuals facing deportation,” Mayor Kasim Reed said in a statement.
Garland said the city will contract with organizations, including the Vera Institute, to help provide the legal assistance for immigrants in deportation proceedings. She said Catholic Charities will also be providing legal services.
