CA Governor Gavin Newsom Source: Rich Pedroncelli / Pool via AP

If you are undocumented and live in California, you may be able to qualify for a one-time state-funded disaster relief assistance. Note: “An undocumented adult who qualifies can receive $500 in direct assistance, with a maximum of $1000 in assistance per household.”

The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) is the agency in charge of overseeing these funds and it has assigned 12 different immigrant-serving organizations across the state of California to help distribute these funds to undocumented and mixed-status families.

Applications open on May 18, 2020 & funds will be distributed on a first come, first serve basis until the funds run out or until June 30, 2020, so it’s recommended that you apply early!

Here is how you can learn more about the fund and apply if you are eligible:

1. Visit the official CDSS website, including their section on Frequently Asked Questions to learn more about the fund and see if you are eligible.
2. Find the nonprofit organization that has been assigned to your region, using this table.
   • For example, if you live in San Diego, you will need to apply through the Jewish Family Service.
   • NOTE: These organizations are not taking online applications. You have to call their designated hotline numbers to apply. For example, if you live in San Diego, you have to call the Jewish Family Service through their designated hotline numbers (not their general phone line).
   • Given the large amount of calls that many of these organizations are currently receiving, some organizations are asking you to please leave a voicemail and they will return your call. If you do not get through the first time, you can also try calling again at a later time.
3. After you find the nonprofit organization that has been assigned to your region, we also recommend that you visit their official website and social media accounts to keep up with their latest announcements regarding the application process.

IMPORTANT: This resource was first posted by CDSS official website. The link to the state fund may not work after the deadline has passed.

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Categories: COVID-19

Tags: California, COVID-19, family life, Immigration, undocumented