Finding Freedom Far From Home
At 28 years old, Kumiko Konaka left Japan for the United States with big dreams and the courage to chase them. “I wanted freedom and opportunities to study,” she says. “I wanted independence.” Over the years, Kumiko built a life full of accomplishments—earning a PhD, becoming a professor, and building a community she cherished.
But now at 81, Kumiko faced a new challenge: renewing her green card. With limited income, an outdated computer, and shaky hands, the process felt overwhelming. “I saw my green card would expire soon, and I knew I needed help,” she recalls.
“I just didn’t know where to start.”
A Lifeline Through Open Hands
Kumiko found her way to one of Open Hands Legal Services’ Legal Aid Desks in Harlem, where she met Avril Roberts, a staff attorney dedicated to serving New Yorkers in need.
“Kumiko’s story is remarkable,” says Avril. “But like many of our clients, she faced obstacles she couldn’t overcome alone. The cost of renewing her green card and the complicated application process were barriers that made her feel stuck.”
At the Legal Aid Desk, Avril walked Kumiko through every step of the renewal process. Together, they gathered proof of her benefits to apply for a fee waiver, completed the necessary paperwork, and ensured everything was submitted correctly. “Avril made the process easy,” Kumiko shares.
“Without Open Hands, I don’t know what I would have done.”
Perseverance and Gratitude
When Kumiko’s fee waiver and application were approved, she felt an incredible weight lifted off her shoulders. “It’s such a relief to know I can stay in the country I call home,” she says. “Avril and Open Hands treated me with so much kindness and respect. They believed in me.”
For Avril, helping Kumiko was deeply rewarding. “It’s always humbling to see the resilience of our clients,” Avril shares. “Kumiko’s story is a testament to what’s possible when we work together to provide justice and hope.”
Your Role in Stories Like Kumiko’s
Kumiko’s renewed green card isn’t just paperwork—it’s her connection to the stability and independence she worked so hard to build. Thanks to Open Hands’ donors and volunteers, she can continue to focus on her passions, including teaching and writing.
“You are the reason clients like Kumiko find the help they need,” Avril emphasizes. “Your generosity makes our work possible.”
When Kumiko couldn’t renew her Green Card, Open Hands Legal Services was there to help her every step of the way. Thanks to the support of donors and volunteers, Kumiko now has the security and independence to continue her incredible journey. Your gift ensures that more New Yorkers like Kumiko receive the help they need to reclaim stability and hope.