About Us
"Wanllan Mi Wanlle," which means "Help Me, I Help You" in Fulani, is a dynamic mutual aid collective founded to support recent asylum seekers from West Africa. This initiative thrives within a digital ecosystem, primarily organized through a WhatsApp/Telegram group that shares the same name. The community focuses on collaborative efforts, where members exchange insights and resources, and fostering a strong sense of community. Within this digital ecosystem, members collaboratively exchange invaluable insights and resources, elucidating the avenues to public benefits, encompassing Medicaid, food stamps, the NYC ID card, reduced Metro-card fare, English language programs; and the intricate asylum process, including reporting to ICE, changing addresses and venue, and completing the asylum and employment authorization document applications, while cultivating a sense of belonging within a nurturing community.
Community Impact
The resilience and relevance of Wanllan Mi Wanlle are evident in its exponential growth. With over 2,300 dedicated members, our community continues to expand, highlighting the undeniable impact and urgency of the needs we address.
Community Initiatives
Meet-and-Greet Barbecue
On October 1st, 2023, we organized our first meet-and-greet barbecue event in Prospect Park. We gathered about 400 to 500 individuals, strengthening our bond and reminding ourselves that we are in this together.
Office Space in Bed-Stuy
In early November 2023, we self-funded an office space in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, to provide more in-house programs and better meet the urgent needs of our members.
Podcast
In early February 2023, we launched Wanllan Mi Wanlle podcast to inform about the current realities of migrants. Grounded in the conditions and work of the community, the podcast will share insights and guidance on navigating the asylum system and establishing a reasonable life in the United States. This extends our digital platforms and dispels the spread of misinformation and exploitation.
Services
Medical Assistance Program
Our Medicaid Assistance Program provides guidance and support for recent members to navigate the process of applying for Medicaid benefits. We assist them in understanding eligibility criteria, completing application forms, and addressing any challenges that may arise during the application process.
IDNYC Assistance Program
Our IDNYC Assistance program helps individuals complete the IDNYC municipal identification card application and obtain a proof of address letter. We provide information guidance on how to access the service.
ICE Registration Support
Our ICE Registration Support program offers assistance to individuals required to register with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). We provide guidance on registration requirements, help individuals complete registration forms.
Change of Address Assistance
Our Change of Address Assistance program helps individuals update their address with relevant authorities, such as immigration agencies and government offices. We provide guidance on the process for updating address information and assist individuals in completing the necessary paperwork.
Change of Venue Support
Our Change of Venue Support program assists individuals in completing a change of venue motion for their immigration court hearings.
Reduced Metro-Card Fare Program
Our Reduced Metro-Card Fare Program helps individuals’ access reduced-fare Metro-Cards for public transportation. We provide information on eligibility criteria, and assist in completing applications.
Affidavit Review Service
Our Affidavit Review Service offers assistance to individuals in reviewing and preparing affidavits to support their asylum applications. We review affidavits for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with legal requirements.
Work-Permit Assistance
Our Work-Permit Assistance program provides guidance and support for individuals seeking employment authorization. We provide information on eligibility criteria and assist constituents complete their work permit applications.
Legal Consultation & Asylum Application Support
Our Legal Consultation & Asylum Application Support program offers individuals access to legal consultations and assistance with preparing asylum applications, pro se, in partnership with Co-Counsel.
Learner’s Permit Class and Online Test Preparation
Our Learner’s Permit Class and Online Test Preparation program helps individuals prepare for the learner’s permit test required for obtaining a driver’s license. We offer classes and online resources to help individuals study for the test and pass with confidence.
Online Master Calendar Hearing Assistance
Our Online Master Calendar Hearing Assistance program offers support to individuals scheduled for immigration court hearings. We provide access to a computer in our office, guidance on preparing for master calendar hearings conducted online, and assistance in understanding hearing procedures.
Join Us
Wanllan Mi Wanlle is an inclusive and non-sectarian space where everyone is welcome. Join our community to access vital information, resources, and a supportive network.
Stay connected, stay supported, and lets build a better future together.