Jenny Ballesteros Magdaleno

Jenny (she/her/hers) will represent undocumented immigrants living on the Northern Central Coast of California in becoming lawful permanent residents through 245(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act and provide post-conviction relief services to those who need them.

There are about 83,000 undocumented immigrants living on the Northern Central Coast, many of whom are farmworkers. There are only five nonprofits that serve the area, but most of them provide limited immigration legal services and are unable to meet the need for representation. Consequently, many individuals are forced to travel several hours away to obtain assistance or fall victim to notaries who commit immigration fraud. A priority need of the community is assisting undocumented immigrants in becoming lawful permanent residents through 245(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, as potentially tens of thousands qualify. Clients often also require post-conviction relief assistance, which is not currently offered by area nonprofits.

Jenny is passionate about working with the immigrant community because, growing up, she witnessed the struggles her undocumented parents faced. She specifically wants to help the immigrant community on the Northern Central Coast of California because she grew up there and has seen first-hand how the lack of immigration legal service providers has negatively impacted the community.

During her Fellowship, Jenny will conduct at least 200 pro bono consultations, assist 100 people in applying for their lawful permanent residency through 245(i), and help five people obtain post-conviction relief. Jenny will conduct community outreach throughout the three counties to inform people of these services. She will also strengthen CAB’s relationships with other service providers in the area to assist more people.