JULY 2025

New Program Launch: Free Immigration Legal Services for Survivors

Valley Oasis is proud to introduce a new program offering free legal services for immigrants who have experienced harm from a family member or another individual.

Survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and other violent crimes may be eligible for immigration relief—including work permits, lawful permanent residency (green cards), and even U.S. citizenship.

In many cases, survivors may also be eligible for public benefits even before receiving work authorization. Once approved, individuals may obtain a valid Social Security number, driver’s license, or state ID—important steps toward safety and stability.

We understand that reaching out can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve been told you have no legal rights because of your immigration status. That is not true. Our legal team and trained immigration advocates are here to support you—confidentially, compassionately, and without judgment.

Our services include assistance with:

VAWA: For survivors of domestic violence harmed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, parent, or adult child
U Visa: For survivors of violent crime who have cooperated with law enforcement
T Visa: For survivors of human trafficking
SIJS: For youth under 21 who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected
Adjustment of Status: For those eligible to apply for permanent residency
DACA: For individuals who arrived in the U.S. as children and meet eligibility criteria

If you or someone you know may benefit from these services, we encourage you to reach out. Our Survivor Justice Center’s free immigration program is here to help.

👉 Email: malfaro@avdvc.org

Everyone has rights, regardless of immigration status.

Learn more:

On the Frontlines of Change: Representing Valley Oasis at the 2025 National Alliance on Ending Homelessness Conference

📸 Pictured: Valley Oasis Director of Communications and Community Impact attending the 2025 NAEH Conference in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. | July 2025

Valley Oasis was proud to take part in this year’s National Alliance to End Homelessness Annual Conference in Washington, D.C., joining thousands of service providers, policymakers, and advocates committed to creating lasting solutions to homelessness.

Representing Valley Oasis, our Director of Communications and Community Impact, Elvia Aldaco Salazar, MPA., CAPP, participated in a wide range of sessions designed to strengthen leadership, advocacy, and sustainability across the field.

Sessions attended included:

Mobilizing Ideas to Action: Building a Movement
Sustaining the Mission: Collaboration and Creative Strategies to Diversify Funding
Bridging the Divide: Communicate with Lawmakers Across the Aisle on Homeless Solutions
How to Keep Moving Forward: Advancing Your Agenda at the State and Local Level
Funding Your Mission: How to Prospect, Write, and Manage Grants Successfully

These sessions provided valuable insights into strengthening our systems, increasing public engagement, and building financial resilience, all of which directly inform the work we do in the Antelope Valley.

"Every community deserves a seat at the table. I'm proud that Valley Oasis is helping shape conversations that move our systems from crisis response to long-term solutions."

- Elvia Aldaco Salazar

August Online Auction – Bid, Win, and Make an Impact!

Get ready to shop with purpose! Our August online auction is right around the corner, featuring new items every Friday—from amusement park tickets and golf outings to dog grooming, unique experiences, and exclusive gift baskets. All proceeds directly support the life-changing programs and services we provide to individuals and families in need across the Antelope Valley. Join us, spread the word, and make every bid count.

Bidding opens Friday, August 1st at 8:00 am!

Partner Spotlight: Uplifting Youth in the Antelope Valley

A powerful collaboration between Lorraine Gonzalez, DCFS/Probation Liaison at Valley Oasis, and Maria Rodriguez, Program Manager at The Salvation Army, The Way Inn, is creating real impact for young women ages 18–24 facing housing instability. In recent months, they’ve successfully placed five youth into safe, supportive housing, providing stability, mentorship, and pathways to employment. Lorraine identifies Transitional Age Youth in crisis, while Maria’s team delivers wraparound care within a trauma-informed, client-centered environment. One youth shared, “For the first time in a long time, I feel like I’m not alone.” As Maria puts it, “If you are doing it alone, you are doing it wrong.” Together, they show that collaboration isn’t just a strategy—it’s the key to lasting impact.

The Salvation Army The Way Inn plays a vital role in this collaborative effort, offering transitional housing and holistic support tailored to the unique needs of young women. The program provides more than just shelter— it helps participants reclaim stability and chart a course toward independence. Their unwavering commitment to empowering youth exemplifies the profound impact of mission-driven service in the Antelope Valley. To learn more about their program and services, visit their webpage below.

Learn More

Together for Good: Nonprofit Day is Coming

Next month, we’ll be celebrating National Nonprofit Day—a moment to honor the impact of mission-driven organizations and the people behind them. At Valley Oasis, this day is about you—our staff, partners, and supporters—who show up every day with compassion and commitment.

Explore Resources

Get Connected To Your Community

Our Community Resource Folder remains a trusted hub for connecting individuals and families to essential services across the Antelope Valley. With new programs and updates added regularly, it serves as a reliable starting point for those navigating housing, health, safety, and other critical needs.

Accessible to all—staff, partners, and community members—we encourage you to explore the current listings.

Have something to add or update? Please get in touch with our Regional Coordination team at rc@avdvc.org.

Upcoming Events & Workshops