Higher Education for AB 540 Students (HEFAS)

Welcome to HEFAS!

HEFAS Mission

HEFAS (Higher Education for AB 540 Students) is an institutional and educational program that provides free services, reduces financial stress, and creates a safe space for all – with an emphasis on students with an undocumented, low income, or AB 540 status. Scroll down to learn more about us!

Click here to Become a member

HEFAS Brochure

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About Us

We're dedicated to empowering students, building leaders, promoting social justice, and advocating for higher education. Our vision is to give students, parents, educators, and community members the tools to support students in reaching higher education regardless of the barriers that may exist.

Read more about HEFAS in the La Voz News archives.

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Important Resources for Our Community

The Rapid Response Network (RRN):
The RRN is a community defense initiative designed to protect immigrant families from deportation threats and provide support during or after an arrest or detention. They rely on volunteers to protect neighbors at risk of ICE activity. If you witness or suspect immigration enforcement in the area, you can call or text them. They’ll verify the activity, provide resources, and keep the community informed through their social media platforms.

• Call/Text: 408-290-1144
• Instagram: @scc_rapidresponsenetwork

Free Legal Support for Community College Students:
As a community college student, you have access to free legal advice and support. You can book a session with a legal representative to ask questions and receive guidance, including assistance with any immigration processes you or your family might be navigating. In some cases, they can also help your family if you’re involved as a petitioner or recipient.

• Find Your Ally: De Anza HEFAS Legal Resources

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Donate to HEFAS

Information for donations

• Click "Quick Donate" button
• Select the amount for donation
• Then, select option of "Other"
• And type "HEFAS" and fill out the form with your information

DONATE HERE

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Testimonial

"My favorite thing about HEFAS is just knowing it exists, and that if I refer a student to HEFAS there will be a safe and supportive environment welcoming them! Also, the student interns are super friendly and personable; plus always down to support wider campus events."

- Melecia Navarro, De Anza alum and EOPS Program Coordinator

• 11.2 million undocumented immigrants of all ages live in the US

• 1.8 million undocumented children under the age of 18 live in the US

• 65,000 undocumented students graduate high school every year

• Only 7,000-13,000 undocumented students enroll in college throughout the US

• An estimated 3,000-5,000 undocumented students are enrolled in college in CA

Our Supporters