San Fernando Grants for Residents Impacted by Immigration Raids

Emergency Relief for Residents Affected by Immigration Raids

Residents of the City of San Fernando who have faced financial challenges due to recent immigration enforcement actions may now be eligible for emergency relief. The city has launched a new initiative called “San Fernando Together,” designed to provide financial support and essential services to those impacted. This program is being supported through a partnership with Home Again Los Angeles, a nonprofit organization that offers homeless services.

The grants available under this initiative are set at $250 for individuals and $500 for families. These funds aim to help residents cover basic needs such as food, utilities, and other essential expenses. The city has been actively promoting this opportunity through various channels, including social media posts, printed flyers, and bulletins placed in public facilities and parks.

To qualify for the grant, applicants must be current residents of San Fernando and have experienced a loss of income due to one of the following situations: a reduction in pay or a drop in bank balances caused by immigration enforcement, or the detention of a wage-earning family member leading to financial hardship.

Will Pettener, assistant to the city manager, mentioned that the City Council approved up to $15,000 in funding during a meeting on July 7. He emphasized that the grants will continue to be available as long as the funds last. Pettener encouraged anyone affected by the immigration raids to visit the city’s website or stop by the Business and Community Resource Center at City Hall to obtain an application.

He also noted that many residents are now hesitant to leave their homes due to the ongoing raids, which has made it difficult for them to support their families. In response, the city is working to expand its assistance programs and provide additional resources to the community.

Recently, the city awarded a $5,000 grant to the Ignite the Light of Hope Foundation to organize two free food distribution events at Las Palmas Park. Additionally, the city is looking to enhance its rental assistance program through Home Again LA. The nonprofit has agreed to offer case management referrals and legal aid services for families affected by the raids. The city aims to broaden these efforts to address the diverse needs of the community.

Broader Support from Los Angeles

Beyond the City of San Fernando, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has announced a separate initiative to support residents impacted by immigration enforcement. This program includes the distribution of cash cards valued at "a couple hundred dollars" through nonprofit organizations, family resource centers, and other direct channels, such as the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA). The funding for these cards comes from philanthropic partners rather than the city itself.

This initiative is part of an executive directive signed by Mayor Bass to strengthen support for immigrant communities. The directive calls for improved training protocols and preparedness plans related to immigration enforcement, as well as expanded access to city department resources for immigrant families.

How to Apply

Residents interested in applying for the emergency grant from the City of San Fernando can visit City Hall at 117 Macneil St. or download an application online at www.bit.ly/SFFinancialAssistance.

By offering these financial assistance programs, the City of San Fernando and the broader Los Angeles area are taking steps to support vulnerable communities and ensure that those affected by immigration enforcement have access to the resources they need.