NORTHRIDGE, CA - On Wednesday, Gov. Gavin Newson announced that California will provide direct disaster assistance to undocumented workers who lost their jobs because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
(Credit, Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)
The $2.2 trillion stimulus package signed by the Federal Government to help American citizens that lost their jobs, left out undocumented workers that will not receive any help due to their immigration status.
In response, California created a $125 million coronavirus fund to support the 150,000 undocumented immigrants that makeup 10% of its workforce.
"I'm not here to suggest that $125 million is enough. But I am here to suggest it's a good start, and I'm very proud it's starting here in the state of California," Newsom said.
After their application has been processed, workers will receive a one-time payment of $500 per adult, with a cap of $1,000 per household. The money for the fund comes from the state and private philanthropists, $75 million will come from state donations and $50 million from philanthropists.
The decision has been heavily criticized by groups that oppose illegal immigration. Gov. Newsom did state that the undocumented workforce is essential to the state in agriculture, construction, health care, and they also paid over $2.5 billion in local and state taxes in 2019.
(Credit, Rich Pedroncelli / AP)
“California is the most diverse state in the nation. Our diversity makes us stronger and more resilient. Every Californian, including our undocumented neighbors and friends, should know that California is here to support them during this crisis. We are all in this together,” Newsom said.
By, Luis Miron
Contributions from CNN, Office of Governor Gavin Newsom
Photo, Ricardo DeAratanha, Rich Pedroncelli
Audio, Luis Miron
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