# El Rescate

El Rescate is a nonprofit resource center and community organization based in Southern California providing free legal and social services to Central American refugees living primarily in Los Angeles and surrounding communities.

## History and purpose

El Rescate was founded in 1981 by members of the Santana Chirino Amaya Refugee Committee, along with the Southern California Ecumenical Council. From 1980 to 1987, between 1 and 1.5 million people in El Salvador were driven from their homeland due to the civil war and persecution by military death squads, resulting in an estimated one-tenth of the population fleeing the country. In response to the high influx of immigrants fleeing political persecution, El Rescate became the first U.S. agency to provide legal and social services to these refugees. The Los Angeles-based organization opened Clínica Monseñor Romero, offering free health and medical attention. In 1987, El Rescate opened El Refugio, a transitional housing shelter for refugees. The organization incorporated legal services in addition to social services and launched the Children's Advocacy Project in 1984 to prevent family disunification and the separation of children often caused by immigration detentions.
El Rescate also responded to the 1986 earthquake in El Salvador by raising thousands of dollars for food, medical supplies, and construction materials to aid the thousands left homeless and injured. Throughout the 1980s, the organization continued to aid war-torn communities in El Salvador while serving refugees in the United States. In 1989, El Rescate led the Caravan of Material Aid, delivering $3 million worth of supplies to more than ten war-torn communities.

## Services provided

El Rescate has been instrumental in reversing discriminatory immigration policies and advocating for just legislation. In 1991, the agency initiated its Temporary Protected Status Campaign, registering more than 60,000 individuals for permanent residency to secure political refugee status for Salvadorans. El Rescate played a key role in gaining residency for immigrants after the settlement of the American Baptist Churches v. Thornburgh case, which challenged restrictive and discriminatory immigration policies that denied asylum to political refugees from El Salvador and Guatemala.
El Rescate also advocated for the passage of the Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act (NACARA), which allowed for the consideration of refugee cases under less restrictive rules. The organization was instrumental in getting clauses included in the 2003 NACARA amendments, making it easier for some Salvadorans and Guatemalans to become legal residents in the United States.

## Post-civil war expansion

Following the end of the Salvadoran Civil War in 1992, many Salvadorans chose to settle in California while maintaining strong ties to their homeland. El Rescate adapted its focus to include financial services for immigrants and permanent residents, such as credit cards, phone cards, payroll services, and the Comunidades Federal Credit Union. It also assisted with remittances to relatives in Central America, provided small loans, and offered workshops to help immigrants achieve financial security. Additionally, the organization provided literacy tutoring and facilitated access to healthcare services. While Salvadorans were the primary beneficiaries, other Central American refugees and Latino immigrants in the Los Angeles area also received assistance.
After the civil war ended, El Rescate shifted its focus towards economic development and political empowerment. The agency has offered free lessons in guitar, pantomime, painting, flute, and karate, reflecting a community that is settling down and integrating into the mainstream. El Rescate's staff, predominantly Salvadoran, has emphasized economic development, empowerment, accountability, networking, and coalition building.

## Legislative advocacy and community engagement

El Rescate works with Central American communities by providing legal representation and advice in political asylum cases. Policy analysis and recommendations are central to the organization's efforts to maintain fair immigration and naturalization legislation. El Rescate also offers community outreach orientation to individuals and families new to the United States and Los Angeles. In the 21st century, El Rescate sponsors community and social events and collaborates with other Salvadoran organizations to host the annual International Convention of Salvadoran Communities Residing Abroad. The organization also conducts weekly charlas (public presentations) on legal issues and maintains a website promoting community events.
In addition to advocacy, El Rescate has been involved in significant fundraising efforts, securing grants for technical assistance, education, and job training in various skills, including English, computers, mechanics, carpentry, and business. The organization encourages members of the community to start small enterprises, invest in the community, and contribute to the reconstruction of El Salvador.

## Community impact

Stories of individuals who fled El Salvador due to political pressure highlight the personal impact of El Rescate's efforts. Refugees have found support in learning English, volunteering, and opening various types of businesses. Others have received assistance from El Rescate in applying for temporary protected status and finding new housing after losing their homes due to a variety of factors, including the 1992 Los Angeles riots and the 1994 Northridge earthquake. Many immigrant families helped by El Rescate now consider Los Angeles their permanent home and actively participate in their communities.
Through initiatives aimed at empowering the Salvadoran community, such as sponsoring community forums and encouraging political participation, El Rescate continues to advocate for economic and social development. The organization's efforts extend to providing mental health services and promoting financial support for small businesses in both the United States and El Salvador, fostering a sense of community and connection to their homeland.