After several courts across the country granted preliminary injunctions last week, blocking the “public charge” rule from taking effect, THE CITY takes a look at what follows for immigrant communities and the confusion over the measure which has already has spurred some immigrant New Yorkers to drop benefits — even ones not specified in the new Department of Homeland Security policy.

On Tuesday, October 15th, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Legal Aid attorneys will join the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs and several immigration advocacy groups, in a phone bank at Catholic Charities to help immigrants and their families seeking advice. The number to call is 800-566-7636.

“The word that we want to get out there is ‘Continue your benefits,’” said Hasan Shafiqullah, attorney-in-charge at The Legal Aid Society’s Immigration Law Unit. “If you’re concerned if it’s safe for you to stay on them or to enroll … then speak with somebody first.”

The Legal Aid Society provides urgent legal services to reunify families and assist low-income immigrants in obtaining lawful status, applying for citizenship, and defending against deportation. Find out more about how we can help.