When first arriving in a new city like Chicago, it can be difficult for immigrants and refugees to meet basic needs. The Centro Romero Youth Program has taken the initiative to make this transition period as smooth as possible, providing new arrivals essential services such as food, haircuts, and even some cosmetic services such as nail polishing. Providing these everyday necessities is another example of how Centro Romero’s programs allow the Chicago immigrant community to support itself and its members in need. 

With an eye on aid and advocacy at all levels, Centro Romero administrative staff have also been in attendance at recent community events highlighting the needs of the Chicago immigrant and Latin American community, events that move beyond addressing basic needs to focus on large-scale change. Executive Director Daysi Funes attended a conference at DePaul University which focuses on issues of immigration policy, social justice, and community support. It was a great opportunity to promote the work that Centro Romero does in the community, and to hear from other similarly motivated thinkers and advocates. Daysi was also in attendance, alongside Associate Director Diego Samayoa, the Consulate General of El Salvador in Chicago, and other local policymakers at the Chicago Latino Film Festival to view a screening of “The Fishes Within”, an excellent Salvadoran film that focuses on the issue of children’s rights. The film, and all who were in attendance, celebrated the deep Latino heritage across the world, and right here in the City of Chicago.