The Literacy Network has received notice that funding via a federal grant for its citizen program has been terminated.
Literacy Network and Centro Hispano were partnered to provide citizenship courses as part of a grant received in 2023. The awarded grant, Citizenship Instruction and Naturalization Applications Services (CINAS), has been around since 2009 to support lawful permanent residents (LPRs) to prepare for U.S. naturalization interviews. Recipients under programs were offered classes in English and U.S. history along with legal assistance for citizenship applications for LRPs who have continuously lived in the country for at least three years.
The grant termination notice states, “DHS has determined that the scope of work performed under this award no longer effectuates the program goals and the Department’s priorities,” to stop funding “illegal immigration.” Those who receive benefits of the CINAS grant are all here legally.
“The DHS action is shortsighted,” said Robin Ryan, executive director of Literacy Network. “This grant supported people who followed the rules for applying for citizenship. It helped low-income adults access free classes and legal assistance to apply for citizenship to obtain security and greater opportunities for themselves and their families. Dane County thrives in part because immigrants choose to become citizens and participate in our democracy.”
To date, Literacy Network has served 175 people in its citizenship courses from Oct. 1, 2023 through the end of March 2025. Under Literacy Network, 15 participants of classes obtained citizenship in the first three months of 2025, 11 are currently for their naturalization interview and more than 50 are currently enrolled in courses. It estimates that it was on track to serve more than 100 LRPs in 2025.
Loss of the grant causes a $74,000 pitfall for funding. It looks to find a substitute for the loss in funding to continue to serve LRPs seeking citizenship.
“It’s difficult right now simply because there are so many agencies and so many needs that have been impacted by federal cuts,” Ryan said. “We will certainly reach out to our current supporters and welcome ideas for others who are interested in supporting people who are trying to obtain citizenship.”
