July 7, 2025

Carmen M. Chavez, Esq. – Executive Director, Casa Cornelia Law Center

Casa Cornelia Law Center is a sponsored ministry of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus

In 2024, Casa Cornelia Law Center continued to deliver vital, no-cost legal services to immigrants, asylum seekers, and survivors of violent crime—offering safety, stability, and hope to those most in need.

Last year, Casa Cornelia responded to 2,928 individuals from 79 countries, speaking more than 55 languages. Of all cases, 48% were asylum claims from individuals fleeing persecution and torture. Thirty-five percent were children and youth navigating the immigration system—often alone and without family.

Strikingly, 75% of these children were boys. This imbalance reveals a deeper truth: girls often face even greater risks and more severe barriers to escape. Many cannot even ask for help, underscoring the urgency of our work.

Seventeen percent of our cases involved survivors of violent crimes, 73% of whom were women seeking safety and justice. These brave individuals were met with skilled, compassionate legal support at Casa Cornelia.

Our mission is strengthened by community: 20% of all cases—591 in total—were taken on by volunteer attorneys, demonstrating the extraordinary power of pro bono service. Our clients primarily came from Latin America and the Caribbean, with the second-largest group from the Middle East. Among unaccompanied minors, 30% were from Guatemala and 21% from Mexico. Seventy-seven percent of crime victims we supported were from Mexico.

As we move forward in 2025, Casa Cornelia is grateful for the Society’s support and remains a steadfast refuge shored in the belief that it is important to meet the needs of the most vulnerable. Visit www.casacornelia.org to learn more and discover how you can stand with us in this life-changing work.