The Consulate of Mexico has an urgent message for DACA recipients

The Consulate of Mexico in Calexico is trying to get the word out to dreamers to renew their DACA immigration benefit.

The consulate says people are running out of time as the deadline is quickly approaching.

“They only have less than a month to apply,” said Luis Lara, Consul for Protection and Legal Affairs.

The last day to apply or renew their immigration benefit of DACA is October 5th and help is being provided.

“We are signing an agreement with Catholic Charities, they are committed to fill the applications for free, they have a grant so they can help them with the applications,” explained Lara.

There are currently 800,000 DACA recipients in the country, 154,000 of which will have expired benefits within the next six months in they don’t apply for renewal.

“There are many that need to apply in a very short period of time,” added Lara.

The cost for renewal is usually $495 and the consulate fears that may be the reason for low turnout at community events related to DACA.

“We can help them with the application fee or part of it. If they apply they are going to have another two years to work legally in the United States, to be legal in the United States,” said Lara.

An immigration forum will be hosted by Congressman Juan Vargas in El Centro on Wednesday where people will have the opportunity to hear from immigration experts.

“So if people know as DACA recipient, please let them know that we can help, let them know that they need to apply right now,” said Lara.

For more information on the immigration forum happening Wednesday and how to receive renewal assistance you can visit https://vargas.house.gov/immigration-forum.