California to Commit Millions to Support Undocumented Immigrants
The governor's office is channeling previously budgeted funds to philanthropic partners to deliver food assistance and broader support services to immigrant households across the state — supplementing legal aid money California has already earmarked for individuals facing deportation proceedings.
"While the federal government targets hardworking families, California stands with them – uniting partners and funding local communities to help support their neighbors," Newsom said in a press release.
"The urgent need grows as the Trump Administration accelerates mass detention, tramples due process, and funds authoritarian enforcement with over $170 billion. As the Trump Administration chooses cruelty and chaos, California chooses community," he added.
A spokesperson for the governor, who said Newsom has been in direct contact with immigrant families and community leaders affected by the federal crackdown, painted a stark picture of conditions on the ground.
"People are afraid to leave their homes, afraid to go to school or work, and unable to afford groceries," the spokesperson told CalMatters.
The $35 million commitment comes as California confronts significant fiscal strain, with Newsom's office projecting a $2.9 billion deficit in the upcoming budget year, according to CalMatters. The state had already moved to scale back certain health care benefits for undocumented immigrants the previous year to address a larger financial shortfall.
Kim Johnson, secretary of the California Health and Human Services Agency, defended the expenditure as a moral obligation.
"When federal actions create fear and instability, our responsibility is to show up for families. This investment strengthens local partners who are helping people access legal services and meet basic needs during an incredibly difficult moment," she said in a press release.
State Senator Lena Gonzalez, a Democrat chairing the California Latino Legislative Caucus, said the funding was a declaration of intent from her party.
"The federal government is waging a war on our communities – and we won't stand for it. We are putting money behind an effort to stop the fear, stop the separation of our families and stop violating our basic rights," Gonzalez added.
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