"I have freedom, safety, security and independence"

"Since becoming a U.S. Citizen, my life has changed the most because I have freedom, safety, security and independence and I can help provide for my family.

My life was very different before KWA helped me become a U.S. citizen. I was living a fear. I couldn’t provide for my children. We couldn’t receive state assistance. When my father died, I couldn’t go back home to Samoa for his funeral because I wasn’t a legal citizen.

Now that I’m a legal citizen, I plan to go visit my family. We can do things that we couldn’t do before. I was able to find a job. I can legally work and take care of my family. My family and I can receive food stamp assistance. I don’t have to be afraid. Last weekend, I applied for my license. When they asked me for all my legal documents, I cried because for the first time, I have it all! I’m Legal. I’m secure. I feel so happy. My children are happy too." -Faaupu