An Update on Recent Immigration-Related Detentions Affecting Our Community - and what you can do.

Dear Friends of The Root Cellar,

We want to share an update regarding recent experiences of some individuals connected to our programs and to provide clarity about what we are observing in our community as it relates to increased presense of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in our cities. Our intention in communicating this information is simply to inform--not to engage in political debate--and to help our supporters understand the realities facing some of our neighbors.

The Root Cellar exists to love God and love our neighbors. Over the past few decades, a growing community of immigrants from more than a dozen countries have come to call our neighborhoods home. Our philosophy is not simply to provide handouts or services, but to work together with our neighbors--from near and far--seeking the Kingdom of God together. Many have become co-laborers in this ministry, serving as volunteers and, in some cases, employees, each expanding the work of God in our neighborhoods.

Federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)has maintained a visible presence in both Portland and Lewiston for several months, with a noticeable increase in activity in recent weeks. It is true that ICE has arrested individuals who have committed crimes and pose a threat to public safety, and we recognize the legitimacy of those efforts. At the same time, we have also observed individuals with no criminal history being arrested and detained. In recent weeks, at least five adult English students connected to The Root Cellar have been detained by ICE agents.

In these cases, the individuals entered the United States legally through a port of entry with an approved visa and continued to follow the immigration processes available to them. They later applied for asylum, maintained communication with immigration authorities, complied with court requirements, and, in many cases, hired legal counsel to ensure their cases were handled properly. They were granted Social Security numbers and federal work authorization and have been working, paying taxes, and contributing to our local communities.

Under a new interpretation of the law, once their original visas expired, they have been deemed "illegally present," even though their asylum cases remain pending. This interpretation has been confirmed by local elected authorities as consistently applied at this time. Detention is typically followed by a court hearing, where in most cases a bond may be set for release, usually in the range of $4,000--$8,000. It is our understanding that their asylum cases may be expedited during this process.

The circumstances surrounding some of these detentions have been particularly difficult. In one instance, a single father was detained following a scheduled asylum hearing, leaving his teenage daughter alone. He was present in order to follow the proper legal process--not because of any criminal activity. Our staff worked to ensure her immediate safety and care, but situations like this have caused significant fear and instability for families who believed they were following the rules set before them.

We are sharing this information because these individuals have been part of our programs, our staff, and our neighborhoods. To the best of our knowledge, they have committed no crimes and have demonstrated a commitment to working, learning English, and contributing positively to the cities we serve. Many are active in local churches and are our Christian brothers and sisters.

In Matthew 25, Jesus teaches that the values of the Kingdom of God are revealed in how we treat those who are most vulnerable--the foreigner, the prisoner, the hungry, and the thirsty--and He identifies Himself with them. This is the heart of the Gospel: God does not remain distant from human suffering, but through Jesus enters into it, bearing our sin, shame, and pain. Jesus calls us to join Him in this work of love and redemption, reminding us that how we care for those in need is connected to how we respond to Him: "Whatever you did for one of the least of these, you did for me."

As an organization, our role remains the same: to walk humbly and faithfully alongside our neighbors, to support those we serve within the bounds of the law, and to ensure our staff and volunteers are prepared to respond with clarity, compassion, and care.

How You Can Help:
We are inviting our community to help meet these urgent needs by giving toward bond and legal costs for individuals connected to The Root Cellar - those we know well and who have consistently followed the legal process. Your gift—of any amount—will go directly toward stabilizing families, securing legal representation, and helping our neighbors remain present with their children, jobs, and communities while their cases move forward. This is a tangible way to stand with those we know and serve, offering both practical support and hope in a critical moment.

Understandably, many of our neighbors are choosing to stay home out of fear. Volunteers are needed to provide rides or make deliveries. Other specific donations of Hannaford Gift Cards, diapers of all sizes, hygiene items and toilet paper have been requested. CLICK HERE to fill out our volunteer form and we will be in touch soon.

We are grateful for your continued support and trust. Your partnership allows us to continue to love God and love our neighbors.

In Prayer,

Joel Furrow, Executive Director

WHAT YOU CAN DO.

Pray for peace that surpasses understanding for our neighbors and for wisdom and faithfulness for The Root Cellar team.

Volunteer There are several specific areas where your time or expertise could be helpful. CLICK HERE and fill out the form.

Give as we work toward solutions to assist with bail bonds and legal costs for individuals connected to our ministry.