She didn’t plan to stay long term, but the ongoing civil war and political instability in her native country made her decide to apply for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). Jelena Giric-Held, the Immigration Law Clinic Director at the nonprofit International House, has assisted Martha since 2015 with her TPS renewal.
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Martha Warkie Becomes an American Citizen
Originally from Monrovia, Liberia, Martha Warkie came to visit relatives living in the United States in 2000. She didn’t plan to stay long term, but the ongoing civil war & political instability in her native country made her decide to apply for Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
A TPS designation currently allows citizens in 16 countries around the world experiencing dangerous conditions such as armed conflict to stay in the United States and obtain a job legally. Each year, those with TPS must wait for an announcement from the presidential administration holding power regarding whether the program will be continued.
Despite ongoing uncertainty about being able to stay in the country, Martha remained committed to her employer and the Charlotte community. She loves helping others and has been a nutrition aide at University Place Nursing and Rehabilitation Services since 2001. The facility serves patients recovering from illness or injury, as well as long-term residents with Alzheimer’s and similar conditions.
Despite ongoing uncertainty about being able to stay in the US, Martha remained committed to her employer and the Charlotte community.
Martha enjoys her job and is a hard worker who excels in a challenging role. Nutrition aide positions are often difficult to fill and have high turnover rates.
Jelena Giric-Held, the Immigration Law Clinic Director at the nonprofit International House, has assisted Martha since 2015 with her TPS renewal. A 2022 NC IOLTA grantee, International House provides low-income immigrants and refugees with the legal assistance they need to navigate documentation, naturalization, and related issues.
International House’s services are increasingly vital. About 16–18% of Charlotte’s population is now foreign-born, compared to less than 1% in 1980. In 2017, immigrant households in Charlotte earned $4 billion and contributed over $1 billion in taxes (New American Economy, 2019).
When Liberians unexpectedly become eligible to apply for green cards in 2019, Jelena helped Martha with the application process. She assisted her with completion of the appropriate forms and went with her to her qualifying interview.
Once she had a green card, Martha could apply for and obtain American citizenship. Now in her late 70s, she is extremely grateful for Jelena’s support and continues to make a positive impact on others every day.