For many families arriving in Utah, receiving work permits means more than just the ability to work—it marks the start of a new life. *Olga and her family, who fled Ukraine to seek asylum, saw it as the start of a new chapter. “For my family, receiving work permits brought stability, hope, and the chance to grow,” says *Olga. “With the ability to work openly and securely, we could plan for the future. Each day felt lighter, and we felt truly part of our community.”

Holy Cross Ministries (HCM) plays a vital role in making this possible. By offering legal services like assisting with Employment Authorization Document (EAD) applications, HCM helps families take their first steps toward independence. “Elsa and the team at Holy Cross guided us through every step, answering all of our questions,” says Olga. “They made us feel heard and supported, and we owe much of our stability to them.”

Many new arrivals don’t realize they are immediately eligible for work authorization, or they don’t know where to turn for help. HCM’s clinics provide essential legal assistance, ensuring that families can access the opportunities they deserve.

As these families begin their new lives, your support is crucial. With your help, HCM can continue providing the legal services and opportunities that so many families depend on.