When Henry left El Salvador, he was fleeing for his life. Arriving in the United States brought safety in the form of asylum. From the moment he was legally able, Henry sought help from Catholic Charities East Bay and carefully followed every step of the immigration process, applying for permanent residency one year after being granted asylum.

Yet for Henry, stability wasn’t the end of the journey. It was the beginning. Five years after receiving his green card, he would be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship. Determined to make that dream a reality, Henry began preparing early — studying for the citizenship test and working tirelessly to strengthen his spoken and written English.

That’s when he turned once more to Catholic Charities East Bay.

With guidance from our highly qualified Immigration Legal Services team, Henry received the support, expertise, and encouragement he needed to navigate a complex system with confidence. Step by step, he moved closer to the future he had envisioned.



At the end of 2025, Henry officially became a citizen of the United States.

His pride, gratitude, and joy were unmistakable. He was so thankful for the support that helped make his dream possible that he wanted to share this photo with you — our generous supporters.

Because of you, neighbors like Henry are not only finding safety, but building lasting futures rooted in hope, dignity, and opportunity.

We’re thrilled to celebrate this incredible milestone with Henry and hope that you are too.

A Partnership that Multiplies Impact

Thanks to a generous Angel Funder, Catholic Charities East Bay is proud to partner with Cristo Rey De La Salle East Bay High School through its innovative Corporate Work Study Program—a collaboration that strengthens our mission while investing in the next generation of leaders.

Through this program, Cristo Rey's students gain meaningful, hands-on experience by working in real-world professional settings. Angel Funders make this possible for nonprofits and educational institutions by underwriting student placements —creating a true double win. Students develop valuable workplace skills and confidence, while organizations like Catholic Charities gain much-needed support to better serve the community.

Today, Cristo Rey's work study students are making a difference across Catholic Charities —supporting our Programs, Development, and Communications teams. Jennifer (pictured) is one of these students, bringing enthusiasm, care, and fresh perspective to our Development team each week.

We are deeply grateful to Cristo Rey De La Salle East Bay High School and our Angel Funder for helping expand opportunity—for students and for the neighbors we serve.



Learn more about the Corporate Work Study Program at tinyurl.com/corporateworkstudy.

Catholic Charities is looking for mission-driven professionals who want to make a real difference in the lives of our neighbors in the East Bay. Explore current job openings and apply through our website's Careers page.

Director of Communications

Oakland, CA

Legal Assistant

Richmond, CA

Outreach Coordinator

Richmond, CA

Case Manager PATH II

Concord, CA

Housing Stabilization Case Manager

Oakland, CA

Bi-lingual Case Manager PATH II

Concord, CA

Start the year by making a difference — one family, one act of kindness at a time.