New California Relief Program for Undocumented Overwhelmed By Demand
Response far outstrips resources as the state partners with nonprofits and foundations in a one-time program that aids undocumented workers and their families during the pandemic.
California's first-of-its-kind effort to get cash aid into the hands of undocumented workers affected by the coronavirus got off to a bumpy start over the past week.
Across the state, tens of thousands of immigrants calling to apply encountered busy signals, crashed phone lines and frustration.
"People are desperate right now," says Christopher Martinez, the chief program officer for Catholic Charities of the East Bay, "that's why they're reaching out. And they're very worried that these funds will run out quickly. But we're just asking people to keep trying."
Catholic Charities is one of a dozen nonprofit and immigrant rights groups the state of California has partnered with
