FORT MYERS, Fla. The possibility of President Donald Trump not renewing the temporary protective status for Haitians that came to the United States following natural disasters, including thousands in Southwest Florida, has prompted fear across the region.
Many are expected to visit the Unitarian Universalist Church in Fort Myers on Saturday to determine how they can stay in the United States legally. The church is offering free legal advice to attendees starting at 9 a.m.
“Our hope is that we can get as many people off TPS and hopefully onto a green card some day,” said Beatrice Jacquet, a Haitian immigrant advocate who is leading the workshop.
After a catastrophic earthquake in 2010, followed by a major hurricane last year, many Haitians in the country feel they have nothing to go back to, Jacquet said.
“It’s a major crisis and what are they going to do right now, if they have people living in tents,” she said.
Temporary protective status only lasts 18 months. If not renewed, it’ll expire July 22.