Columbus, Ohio center expands programs as targeted Haitians seek safety

COLUMBUS, Ohio — When false news broke last week about an immigration raid happening in a popular grocery store here, paralegal Yola Lamarre rushed to the strip mall to see it for herself. As a community liaison and immigration reform justice advocate with the Haitian Community Network (HaCoNet), for Lamarre, the trip to the market came one day after the organization began offering additional language services. It also validates HACoNet’s decision to serve the city’s growing Haitian population, many of whom fled nearby Springfield after President Donald’s Trump lies left them open to attacks.

“Given the ongoing executive orders aimed at deporting immigrants, we understand how vulnerable our community is right now,” Lamarre said.

“That’s why we’re working hard to strengthen and protect our people,” she said in an interview at T-Co Haitian Restaurant on Cleveland Ave, as she waited for her food. “We’re providing vital information about their rights, whether it’s in case of an ICE encounter or just daily life.”

Founded in 2019 by Marc Fequiere, a long-time community member, HaCoNet sought out to help Haitians navigate the complexities of immigration and integration. Now, HaCoNet’s leaders find it more critical than ever to provide essential resources, legal assistance and community advocacy for the challenges ahead under Trump. From Temporary Protected Status (TPS) applications support to English as a Second Language (ESL) classes – Fequiere hopes to help families secure housing, immigration support and employment to empower and uplift them.

“We’re here for the long haul,” Lamarre said. “We will continue to provide support and advocacy for as long as it takes.” 

More services as need for support grows 

The organization has a long-standing commitment to supporting 1,000 people without relying on public sector funding. At present, there is no formal budget in place, and the organization has no cash reserves. It operates without government funding or committed donors. HaCoNet is primarily self-funded, with each member contributing as needed to sustain operations and fulfill the organization’s mission through collective efforts.

“Ninety-nine percent of Haitians come here to work and provide for their families, both here and back home,” Nadia Jean-Jacques, social service director of HaCoNet, said. 

“It’s not just about survival, but about creating opportunities and thriving,” she added. “At HaCoNet, we empower that resilience by offering the resources and support needed to build a better future.”

One of HaCoNet’s key functions is assisting Haitian immigrants with the often-complex TPS application process, which can take months or even years to secure, leaving families in limbo. HaCoNet also provides crucial emotional support, as many Haitians face significant trauma and uncertainty due to anticipated changes in immigration policies under a second Trump administration.

“When you target Black immigrants, especially Haitians, you’re not just harming a group of people,” Jean-Jacques said. “You’re ignoring the very foundation this country was built on. Haitians helped build this country’s freedom in the 1700s. Today, we continue to build its economy and future.”

In response to demand, HaCoNet launched a 3-month ESL program to help students improve their speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. In 2024, more than 200 students participated in the program, and that number is expected to rise in 2025. To meet the demand, HaCoNet is currently seeking Creole-speaking volunteers and instructors.

The current session began on January 21 at two locations in Columbus, which The Haitian Times is not revealing since groups have targeted community providers like HaCoNet. 

“After COVID, our economy went downhill, but it’s the Haitian community – especially in Springfield and Columbus – that has helped rebuild it,” said Dr. Judah Micah-Lamar, an English professor who advocates for the Haitian community. “HaCoNet is lifting them up in a marginalized country.”

HaCoNet has been a staunch advocate for housing rights and legal support. In 2023, when about 850 Haitians were lured to the Colonial Village area with false promises of affordable housing and job opportunities, HaCoNet was among those that stepped up to help relocate families.

With no federal or government funding, the nonprofit has managed to remain operational with donations and a recent grant from the city’s Department of Neighborhoods.

“Our people don’t ask for handouts. We ask for opportunity,” said Jean-Jacques. 

Connecting community in person and online

With the influx of Haitian students into Columbus schools, particularly at Independence High School, HaCoNet has been actively involved in supporting their families, but struggled to secure adequate resources. Some Haitian children have become victims of bullying and physical abuse, leaving bruises and marks. Lamarre said one family, fearing for their child’s safety and concerned about ongoing discrimination, ultimately chose to move to Canada.

In response, the Columbus City Council formed the Commission on Immigrant and Refugee Affairs, and the school system has increased teacher support and services for English learners. Still, many parents feel these efforts fall short of meeting their children’s educational full needs.

In addition to in-person services, HaCoNet has embraced technology to strengthen community ties. The center’s WhatsApp group has become an invaluable communication channel, allowing members to share real-time updates and access important information. The group has proven especially effective during times of uncertainty or crisis, such as the ICE raid rumors.

“The WhatsApp group has been a game-changer,” said Jean-Jacques. “It allows us to stay connected and share information quickly, which is crucial as new issues arise.”

To learn more about HaCoNet’s services, email info@haconet.org or call 1-614-600-5530.

The post Columbus, Ohio center expands programs as targeted Haitians seek safety appeared first on The Haitian Times.

---

Columbus, Ohio center expands programs as targeted Haitians seek safety was first posted on January 29, 2025 at 1:26 pm.