Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York, along with the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA), the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office, and media partners such as Univision and El Diario, recently launched an in-person phone bank to protect immigrant communities from the growing threat of fraud. This first in-person phone bank since the pandemic brought together volunteers and partner organizations, highlighting Catholic Charities’ commitment to empowering vulnerable immigrants with reliable legal information and fraud protection resources.
The phone bank’s urgency stems from a recent surge in fraud cases targeting immigrants. Elizabeth Markuci, Director of Hotline Services, Policy, and Training at Catholic Charities’ Division of Immigrant and Refugee Services, explained that reported fraud cases in the past three months alone have outpaced the entire previous year. “The scams targeting immigrant communities have become more sophisticated, leveraging internet technology to exploit people,” he said, explaining that the cost to victims ranges from $40 to $15,000. “We’re seeing fraud cases that threaten not only financial security but also jeopardize legal standing and future opportunities.”
For nearly a decade, Catholic Charities has managed a hotline in partnership with MOIA to provide accurate information and trusted referrals for immigrants within New York City. Additionally, for over 20 years, it has operated the Office for New Americans’ hotline, supporting immigrants across New York State. Markuci noted that the event created an essential opportunity for individuals to report fraud, receive immediate guidance on scams, and connect with help in their native languages. Law enforcement partners like the Brooklyn DA’s Office want to prosecute these scams, but as Mark emphasized, “they can’t act unless people come forward.”
As Monsignor Kevin Sullivan, Executive Director of Catholic Charities, explained, New York’s immigrant population deserves safe spaces to raise these concerns. “New Yorkers want to make sure their neighbors are not cheated, not scared, and not exploited,” he said. He emphasized that Catholic Charities’ hotline staff handle up to 100,000 calls a year, offering resources in nearly 200 languages to ensure all immigrants feel secure seeking help.
The event also emphasized the importance of immigrant trust in local authorities. Brooklyn DA Eric Gonzalez reaffirmed his office’s commitment, stating, “We are very concerned with the safety and well-being of our immigrant communities.” He assured attendees that victims can report scams without fear of immigration enforcement, as his office is committed to supporting victims regardless of immigration status.
MOIA Commissioner Manuel Castro praised the collective efforts, underscoring the need to “empower our community to make sure they don’t fall victim to fraud or misinformation.” With New York City experiencing a significant influx of immigrants, this collaboration aims to inform and protect families, ensuring they can pursue stability and legal support. The Commissioner hopes this event marks the beginning of broader efforts to educate and safeguard New York’s immigrant population.
This phone bank event highlighted the strength of community partnerships, demonstrating that through collaboration, New York can help immigrants navigate complex legal landscapes and protect them from exploitation.
