Emanuel Wants to Help 10,000 Become Citizens

The city of Chicago wants to help 10,000 eligible immigrants to become U.S. citizens.

Mayor Rahm Emanuel's office says a program will host workshops to assist legal, permanent residents get through the often-complicated and pricey process of becoming a citizen.

There will be no cost to those taking part in the Chicago New Americans Initiative.

In a statement released by his office Wednesday, Emanuel said he is committed to making Chicago "the most immigrant-friendly city in the world."

The statement doesn't offer an overall price tag for the initiative. But it says the city will support agencies and private groups taking the lead in the program by offering them space in city facilities.

The city will also help by spreading the word about the project in schools, libraries and elsewhere.