Idaho group helps people apply for citizenship

NAMPA, Idaho (AP) -- An Idaho group is helping dozens of legal permanent residents and refugees start on the path to getting their U.S. citizenship.

The Idaho Community Action Network on Saturday enlisted volunteer immigration attorneys to assist residents in completing naturalization applications at the Hispanic Cultural Center in Nampa.

Leo Morales, a community organizer with the Idaho Community Action Network, says this first step is an exciting moment for applicants.

Once completed, their applications go to the federal government for review.

The Press-Tribune reported some people waited several hours to fill out the applications Saturday.

One of the benefits of citizenship: Successful applicants will be eligible to vote in U.S. elections.

Morales says his group plans to hold similar events in the future.

Information from: Idaho Press-Tribune, http://www.idahopress.com

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)