Haitian Temporary Protected Status program comes to an end

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Boxes and bags of food lined the walls of the St. Vincent de Paul Community Center in Springfield. The center prioritized food assistance, resource referrals and emergency support for Haitian families preparing for possible job loss or changes to their immigration status.

“We will do whatever we can do. We’ll adapt services as necessary, but we know that what folks need right now is relief and care,” said Casey Rollins, executive director of St. Vincent De Paul.

Casey Rollins runs the community center, and her team has stepped up efforts as the Haitian TPS program came to an end on Monday.

Despite legal challenges that continue, advocates in Springfield say it’s leaving many people facing an uncertain future.

“For a lot of them, it’s already affected their employment. Employers are tending to let some people go because they don’t know if they’re going to be able to work,” said Pastor Carl Ruby.

The expiration means some Haitian TPS holders could lose legal protections from deportation provided by the program, and that their employment authorization tied to TPS will also expire, unless they have another lawful immigration status or receive additional legal relief. Advocates say additional legal filings could still come in the weeks ahead.

However in the meantime, local organizations say they’ll continue doing everything they can to help.

“This is unprecedented for all of us, so we can’t interrupt our services. This is a critical time for all of us to be able to step up and do what we need to do for all of our neighbors,” said Rollins.