Our Story
In the Spring of 2009, a group of dedicated activists in the East End of Long Island recognized the urgent need for legal support among the immigrant community. Alarmed by the ongoing immigration raids and the palpable fear among immigrants, they sought to create a safe haven for those seeking assistance. The tragic stabbing of an immigrant laborer in Patchogue galvanized their efforts, leading to the establishment of Immigration Legal Services of Long Island, Inc. (ILSOLI).
With the support of Incarnation Lutheran Church in Bridgehampton, ILSOLI opened its doors in September 2009. From the very first day, immigrants flocked to the agency, sharing their fears and seeking help. The demand for services quickly became evident, prompting ILSOLI to expand its reach beyond the East End. By the Fall of 2009, a second office was opened in Brentwood, and by 2012, ILSOLI had moved to a larger facility to accommodate its growing clientele.
Today, ILSOLI operates multiple offices, including a support office near the Immigration Court in New York City, staffed by a team of four full-time attorneys and ten dedicated professionals. This remarkable growth is a testament to the commitment of the activists who envisioned a better future for immigrants in Long Island.