Non-profit offers free help with citizenship applications

DOWNEY — Ferias Legales, a Downey-based non-profit, will be offering free legal assistance with citizenship applications and fee waiver applications at Downey’s Barbara J. Riley Community Center on Saturday, Aug. 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The event is in partnership with Downey Mayor Pro Tem Blanca Pacheco, and is part of their regular "Naturalize Now: Free Citizenship Clinics" program.

A licensed immigration attorney, Rocio La Rosa, will be providing free eligibility screenings and free assistance with citizenship applications.

Ferias Legales (Spanish for "Legal Fairs") is a Downey-based non-profit organization focusing on delivering free services to underserved communities and increasing diversity in the legal field. The citizenship clinics are aimed at encouraging people to naturalize in an effort to help them protect themselves, their families, and their futures by empowering them with the ability to vote and become civically engaged.

Appointments are not necessary but are encouraged.

For more information, please contact Maria Torres, who serves as executive director, at (213) 842-6214 or mtorres@feriaslegales.org.