In Topeka, Kan., the American dream is alive and well. The capital of Kansas is helping immigrants who decide to plant their roots in the city. It is not a sanctuary city, but it does want the Hispanic community to feel welcome and take part in its economic and social growth. Therefore, it has a policy that provides up to $10,000 in funds for rent during residents' first year in the city and up to $15,000 for the purchase of a home.
Employers and the city fund the program equally. Most large employers are part of the initiative and are attracting many employees. They are also helping those who want to start a business. "We give you half of the money. It's like a scholarship, you don't have to return that money," commented Israel Sánchez, representative of the program, in a conversation with Telemundo .
"Choose Topeka as your new home and you could get up to $15,000 in your pocket. This exciting program partners with Shawnee County employers to select talented professionals like you to move to Topeka and the Shawnee County community," explained the city's official website.
Employers must notify GO Topeka of their intent to participate for each employee they choose to offer the talent incentive and receive confirmation of acceptance. Once approved, the employer must document and initiate the reimbursement request.
To access the program, applicants must meet two requirements. First, they must move to Topeka to work full time or have a remote job. In addition, applicants must reside in the city for at least one year to receive the full amount. The initiative is known as "Choose Topeka." Additionally, those who want to participate must be eligible to work in the United States.
The city also offers a job search engine, "SkillFit," so that those interested can find an employer that will include them in the program. "SkillFit is an innovative platform that goes beyond traditional job search engines. Whether you're looking for a new career path or transitioning to a different industry, SkillFit's innovative approach will guide you to the right opportunities," the website states.
Currently, Topeka has a Hispanic mayor and multiple Hispanic council members. Almost 15% of its more than 126,000 inhabitants are of Latino origin. Additionally, according to Telemundo, 30% of public school students are of Hispanic descent. The beneficiaries, many of them Venezuelans, assured that the program offers the chance to live in a quiet city full of opportunity.
"I love the city. It is so quiet. There is no crime. I had to prove that I had bought a home and in a matter of a month I received my check for $10,000," said Erick Bovell, a Venezuelan who benefited from the program.
