California is providing storm relief funding to some immigrants. Here’s how much is available
Some immigrant Californians can still receive up to $4,500 if they were impacted by the series of storms that bombarded the state from December to April.
The funding is available through the Storm Assistance for Immigrants project, a $95-million program providing relief to individuals who did not meet the criteria for FEMA assistance. Money disbursement began in June and will last until the end of May 2024 or when funding runs out.
Storm relief is available in the 22 California counties where President Joe Biden issued a Major Disaster Declaration. Eligible households can receive up to $4,500, with qualifying adults receiving $1,500 and children receiving $500. Money will come in the form of a check or pre-loaded debit cards.
Several nonprofit organizations, including La Familia Counseling Center, have been tasked with helping people apply and receive the assistance. The groups were chosen because of their experience serving the immigrant community.
“Hopefully that’ll alleviate some of the stress or barriers,” said Karen Duenas, a program administrator for La Familia Counseling Center.
The nonprofit groups interview applicants and help with the verification process to minimize the risk of fraud. To receive funding, individuals must be over the age of 18, provide evidence of hardship from the storms and confirm ineligibility for federal assistance.
Duenas said families can typically expect to start receiving funding within a few weeks.
She also encouraged Sacramento residents to apply as soon as possible. Some counties have already used up their portion of the state funding and will eventually pull from the remaining money.
La Familia Counseling Center can be reached at 916-720-4735. The statewide number related to storm relief is 866-724-2023.
This story was originally published August 10, 2023 at 5:00 AM with the headline "California is providing storm relief funding to some immigrants. Here’s how much is available."
