Recent Surge in Immigration to the U.S. Sparks Efforts for Family Reunification in Tampa Bay
TAMPA, Fla. — Since 2020, the United States has welcomed over 11 million immigrants, a significant statistic reported by the Pew Research Center that highlights a transformative period in the country’s demographic landscape. The influx of these individuals often entails a difficult decision: the necessity to leave behind family members, sometimes for extended durations. In response to this social challenge, a nonprofit organization in Tampa Bay, Colectivo Arbol, has emerged as a beacon for those seeking reunification with their loved ones.
Colectivo Arbol’s mission focuses on assisting immigrants, particularly those connected to the agricultural sector, by providing resources and guidance on the complex path to reuniting families through visitor visas. These visas, typically granted for a term of ten years, require legal expertise and collaboration with the home country of the visa applicant, making the process a formidable challenge for many families.
Carmen Lugo, a permanent resident from Mexico, exemplifies the emotional stakes involved in the immigration journey. Having lived in the U.S. for nearly four years, Lugo cherishes her daily interactions with animals, which evoke memories of her homeland. The moment she arrived, surrounded by her siblings and children, remains a cherished memory.
Her desire to share this joy led Lugo to assist her cousin in reuniting through the resources provided by Colectivo Arbol. Since March of this year, her cousin has been able to visit, alongside her child, thanks to the nonprofit’s guidance in navigating the visa process. Lugo expressed immense relief in realizing what she described as a seemingly impossible dream for her cousin, who had previously struggled with a lack of support.
“The experience of isolation for many families is profound,” notes Isaret Jeffers, founder of Colectivo Arbol. The nonprofit has primarily assisted older adults who have not seen their loved ones for over two decades, a reality that underscores the emotional toll of prolonged separations. Jeffers emphasized the importance of education, stating that many immigrants are unaware of their options for family reunification until they connect with the organization.
Volunteers play an integral role in facilitating these reunifications, helping older adults navigate airports in Mexico and providing support upon their arrival in the U.S. The nonprofit has reportedly reunited around 100 families in 2023 alone, showcasing the effectiveness of their initiatives.
For those involved, the message remains one of hope. Lugo encourages individuals to have faith in the reunification process and trust that assistance is available. As immigration patterns continue to evolve in the U.S., community organizations like Colectivo Arbol are not only addressing immediate needs but are also fostering connections that will resonate across generations.
