To the editor:

Many of us feel helpless when we read about relentless attacks on our immigrant neighbors by the current administration.

I’m writing to remind Bainbridge Islanders that we have an excellent agency right here in Kitsap County providing legal and family services to immigrants — the Kitsap Immigrant Assistance Center (KIAC). And you can support KIAC services by donating through your annual One Call For All giving.

The 17,000-plus immigrants living in Kitsap County are our friends and neighbors, they attend our schools, own and operate businesses in our community and do all kinds of indispensable work here. They contribute to the quality of our lives on Bainbridge in countless ways, and KIAC supports their needs with citizenship classes, Know Your Rights workshops, language learning, free medical and dental clinics, as well as vital legal assistance with immigration status and removal issues. Right now, KIAC has more than 350 open legal matters and 47 removal cases.

Several Bainbridge Islanders serve KIAC as board members and volunteers, and recently, Sally Tellekson, another Islander, began work as KIAC’s new executive director. KIAC is stepping up to meet the growing needs of immigrants right now, and we’re proud to say Bainbridge Island is a big part of that support.

So, check the KIAC box along with other worthwhile organizations and send off that red envelope!

CATHERINE NICKUM

KIAC board member

Bainbridge Island