217 Today: A Chicago woman who helps migrants fights for a chance to stay in the United States

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Luisette Kraal is often at the free clothing store she co-founded in the Uptown neighborhood helping migrants get basic needs or connecting them to resources. She and her husband, Ed, have lived in Chicago for 12 years. They've created a network of support for hundreds of migrants who have recently arrived in Chicago. But due to challenges with their immigration status, they might have to leave the country soon.
  • Photo: Manuel Martinez / WBEZ

Thursday, May 16, 2024

Today’s headlines:

  • Illinois families living under the federal poverty line can get extra help feeding their kids during summer vacation.
  • Planned Parenthood wants to expand access to abortion in Illinois by not requiring patients to see a doctor.
  • Downstate Illinois lawmakers are furious after Chicago-area House Democrats passed a measure banning hunting contests that target fur-bearing mammals.
  • ​​2024 Illinois Mr. Basketball and incoming freshman Morez Johnson Jr. was selected to compete at the U18 USA Basketball training camp for a roster spot.

In today’s deep dive, we’ll learn about a Chicago woman who was one of the first advocates to help migrants and how she is having a hard time finding a path to stay in the United States. 

217 Today is produced by Stephanie Mosqueda. Reporting today contributed by Esther Yoon-Ji Kang, Kristen Schorsch, Alex Degman, Colin Hislope and Adriana Cardona Maguigad.

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Stephanie Mosqueda

Stephanie Mosqueda is a senior majoring in journalism at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with minors in Spanish and public relations. She is the 217 Today producer and a reporter for the Illinois Student Newsroom.