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Alice Hernandez, an Elkhart resident, has been waiting 10 years for her husband to have the opportunity to come back to the United States. She's been taking on raising her 4 children, 7 grandchildren, and being the sole breadwinner of her family alone, while her husband waits in Mexico. "Financially, it would be a lot different. I wouldn't be worried about losing my home, putting food on the table, not worried about retirement," she says.

The immigration reform group, "Fast for Families" visited the office of Representative Jackie Walorski Monday, in hopes for her to bring about a vote on immigration reform. The group has usually met in Washington D.C. where they protest and fast outside the offices of congresspersons.

"Fast for Families" has decided to take it one step further, in hopes to raise awareness and bring about a vote sooner. The group departed from Los Angeles on February 24. They have two routes a northern and southern route. South Bend is one of the stops on the northern route.

Group member Susana Sandoval says she's been working with mothers and children who have been separated from their families because of immigration laws. The Hernandez family is one of those she is helping. "It's a form of violence. There are over 1,000 people that are being deported on a daily basis. We're asking for that first step forward. We're asking congressmen to take that one step forward in order to help keep America one family. Regardless of their party affiliation, people should be able to raise their family."

The group marched outside Walorski's office and had a news conference in front of their tour bus. Several immigrants shared their story of how proud they were to be a U.S. citizen, and how other immigrants are looking to be granted that same luxury. Rep. Walorski was not at her office, in fact her press secretary Brendon DelToro tells FOX28 she was on a flight to Washington D.C. as the event was taking place. The group delivered 500 petitions from across the country, and the local area, to her office.

South Bend Deputy Mayor Mark Neal was there to meet the protestors, and told them, "South Bend is the sister city to Mishawaka. We are in Mishawaka. South Bend stands behind all that you stand for, and myself and Mayor Pete Buttigieg believe this is an important issue everyone needs to be aware of." Sandoval spoke for "Fast for Families" and asked Mayor Neal to participate in the group's weekly fast. Each Wednesday, participants give up one or more meals in honor of families going through the troubles of immigration laws.

Rep. Walorski was not available for a phone interview, but DelToro released a statement saying, "When the House considers legislation related to immigration, Congresswoman Walorski will take a careful look at each bill that is offered. As always, she encourages Second District Hoosiers to contact our office to convey their opinions on this issue."

Tune into FOX28 News at 10PM to hear more from the spokespeople of "Fast for Families" and a full statement from Rep. Jackie Walorski.

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Immigration reform group rallies at Rep. Walorski's district office