Carissa* is 32 and has a two-year-old son. She was born in Trinidad and Tobago but arrived in the United States when she was six months old. She graduated high school and began college, but due to personal reasons she dropped out to take care of her family. Twelve years later, thanks to Legal Aid’s ALICE LEAP Project, Carissa is enrolled in college and is pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice. She anticipates graduating in 2021 and eventually would like to work as a paralegal at an immigration law firm. She also is in the process of becoming an American citizen.
The ALICE LEAP Project helps put women on a path for prosperity by removing legal barriers keeping them from obtaining education or technical training. In addition to assisting participants with their legal situation, the ALICE LEAP Project helps women like Carissa enroll in educational classes, obtain a degree and ultimately employment that will positively improve their financial future.
*Names have been changed to protect the privacy of our clients.