Stories

“I am also thankful of my daughter for working so hard in helping so many people and as well helped me gain my citizenship.”

Socorro Alvarado is not only the proud mother of Linda Martinez, a UFW Foundation organizer in Fresno, but she is also a proud client of the Foundation. For years, she was afraid of becoming a citizen. It also didn’t help that the current Administration has been heavy handed with immigrants with records, thus fueling her fears about becoming a citizen. 

However, it wasn’t until she spoke with her daughter Linda and was told about the help the UFW Foundation gives to those in her situation that she finally stopped being afraid and started the road towards citizenship. 

After attending two UFW Foundation legal workshops, she was able to study the materials and prepare for the citizenship exam. She was also able to fix her legal issues and gained the confidence to continue the path to citizenship. After all that time and effort, her hard work paid off and was able to pass the citizenship test in August of 2025, which she credits the UFW Foundation with helping and guiding her. 

Due to her positive experience, she helps others in the community by recommending the legal services from the UFW Foundation. 

“They care, they helped me with everything and did not charge me because I was not working at the time,” Socorro said. “The Foundation helped me with commitment, with the fee waiver, and with the guidance from their legal representatives. They were honest with me and helped me submit my application. I am also thankful of my daughter for working so hard in helping so many people and as well helped me gain my citizenship.” 

After gaining her citizenship, Socorro plans to help others have a voice in the United States by voting, helping more family and community members gain their citizenship, and volunteer with the UFW Foundation to help others who need the help she received. 

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