Starting Fresh, but Facing Challenges
When Jason arrived in the United States, he was filled with excitement about the professional opportunities awaiting him. A skilled worker, Jason hoped to build a successful life in New York City, but the journey was more challenging than he anticipated. “I was new to the country and had limited funds and limited English,” he explains. Struggling with both housing and employment, Jason finally found a low-priced hotel and connected with a roommate placement service dedicated to helping new immigrants.
A Costly Betrayal
Jason’s hope grew as he found a roommate through this service and, after several WhatsApp conversations, paid a security deposit and his first month’s rent. But on move-in day, things fell apart. “I couldn’t fit my belongings in an Uber, so I asked if I could arrive an hour late. The roommate refused, told me not to come, and locked me out,” Jason recalls. Left with nowhere to go and no money to stay in the hotel indefinitely, he was devastated when his roommate refused to return his deposit and rent—and even sent him cruel messages. “I didn’t know what to do. I felt alone and desperate.”
“I felt alone and desperate.”
A Path to Justice with Open Hands
When Jason found Open Hands Legal Services, he finally felt he had someone in his corner. The Open Hands Legal Team guided Jason through every step, helping him file a small claims petition and schedule a trial. “They didn’t just show me what to do—they prepared me,” he says. Open Hands role-played with him, reviewed his evidence, and made sure he felt confident and prepared for his hearing.
“Open Hands didn’t just show me what to do—they prepared me.”
The legal team also conducted detailed research on the unique contractual issues from Jason’s WhatsApp exchanges with his roommate, ensuring he had the strongest possible case.
A Victory and a New Beginning
With the support of Open Hands, Jason stood before the court, presenting his case with confidence. He won his case, recovering not only his security deposit and rent but also his legal costs and fees. “I got all my money back, and more,” he shares with a smile. Jason is now happily employed in New York City and has found a stable place to live. “I’m grateful to Open Hands for being there when I had no one else.”
“I’m grateful to Open Hands for being there when I had no one else.”
Jason’s journey shows how easily a new beginning can turn into a nightmare. Left without a home and robbed of his deposit, he found hope through Open Hands Legal Services, who helped him win back what he lost—and more. You can help immigrants like Jason reclaim their dignity and find stability. Donate today to support the legal aid that changes lives.