New Fund for Families Impacted by Immigration Actions in LA County

Los Angeles County officials have announced that a cash fund aimed at assisting families affected by ongoing federal immigration actions will be operational in about a month.

The Board of Supervisors approved the initiative with a 4-0 vote on Tuesday, focusing on providing support for workers and their families, particularly in smaller towns and unincorporated regions of the county.

Specifics regarding the fund are still unclear, including eligibility criteria and potential amounts families may receive.

Residents in the area have been unsettled for nearly two months as the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement has led to apprehensions at various locations, including swap meets, car washes, and even at people’s homes. The atmosphere is tense, with many feeling uneasy about going to work due to the fear of arrest and potential deportation.

“We’re sending a clear message,” officials stated. “Los Angeles County stands united with the immigrant community and will work tirelessly to ensure that all residents receive the dignity and support they deserve, regardless of their immigration status.”

The county is also looking to increase financial support for small businesses that might be adversely affected by these immigration actions, as per a motion the supervisors approved.

Supervisor Kathryn Berger was absent for the vote. Last week, it was announced that the city would allocate funds to help those impacted by increased immigration enforcement. Bass indicated that the assistance would come from philanthropic donations and be distributed via cash cards valued in the hundreds.

Federal agents conducting immigration raids frequently appear in plain clothes, often obscured by sunglasses and masks. Supervisor Janice Hahn mentioned on Tuesday that law enforcement is likely to propose a new ordinance preventing deputies from concealing their identities in unincorporated areas.

“Officers should not disguise themselves during their interactions with the public as part of their official duties,” Hahn remarked.

Additionally, the county is contemplating a program to safeguard items left behind by individuals detained by ICE agents and will establish a hotline for deported workers aiming to retrieve unpaid wages. A recent sweep targeting migrants has resulted in numerous belongings—such as cars, lawnmowers, and ice cream carts—being left unclaimed, with no straightforward method for owners to recover them.

“Many individuals are unsure of how to obtain their final paycheck after deportation or how to handle their possessions,” noted Rosa Soto, director of the LA General Medical Center Foundation during a conference. “It’s crucial that they receive the necessary support.”