Los Angeles Mayor Announces Cash Assistance for Immigrant Families

On Friday, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass revealed a new program aimed at providing financial aid to families impacted by the actions of Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE), part of a broader initiative to support immigrant communities.

During a press conference, Bass introduced an executive order instructing all city departments to refrain from collaborating with the federal government on immigration enforcement. She highlighted that this cash assistance is intended for families who are at risk of arrest or deportation and may have lost income as a result.

The mayor referenced a strategy previously utilized by former Mayor Eric Garcetti, specifically the “Angelino Card,” which offered cash assistance during the lockdowns imposed during the pandemic.

Currently, Los Angeles grapples with a $1 billion budget shortfall. Reports indicate that the new program may provide several hundred dollars per card, funded through charitable contributions rather than city resources.

“I wasn’t immediately sure what qualifications I would need to receive my card,” Bass stated.

She clarified that the funds are sourced from charitable partners and not the city budget. Distribution of the cards will be overseen by organizations focused on immigration rights, such as the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA).

The city’s coordination involves philanthropists and those groups administering the assistance.

CHIRLA, mentioned by Bass, is known for leading protests against ICE activities and has already received substantial public funding.

This initiative comes after the city offered limited support to residents affected by wildfires earlier in the year, with additional assistance being provided through grants from Los Angeles County aimed at aiding low-income residents and workers.