Late deportations to help more than 12k in Mass.

BOSTON (AP) - More than 12,200 Massachusetts residents will benefit directly from a new federal program that allows illegal immigrants brought to the United States as children to apply to avoid deportation and receive a work permit.  

That's according to the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition, or MIRA, which promotes the rights and integration of foreigners in New England.  

Immigrants who qualify for the so-called Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program can start submitting applications Wednesday. They will have to pay a $465 fee and submit proof of their eligibility. Proof can include school transcripts, medical and financial records as well as military service records.  

Hundreds of immigrants are expected to gather Wednesday in Chelsea for the first of three forums co-hosted by MIRA and ROCA Inc., during which immigration attorneys and advocates will explain the new program.

For more Information visit www.uscis.gov/childhoodarrivals