On Friday, July 11, 2025, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass signed an executive order to provide direct financial assistance to families affected by recent federal immigration raids.
The plan is to distribute cash cards of approximately $200, thanks to funds from private donors and philanthropic organizations, not from municipal coffers.
Strengthening sanctuary city policies
The delivery of these cards will take place next week through entities such as CHIRLA (Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles) and other NGOs dedicated to supporting migrants.
The order also includes:
Increased training for public officials to respond appropriately to federal agents during raids.
Requiring federal agencies to disclose data on arrests and associated costs through Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests.
Renewed protocols to ensure that municipal resources are not used in immigration actions.
Enforcement of these measures will strengthen Los Angeles’ role as a sanctuary city and serve as a guide for other municipalities concerned about protecting their immigrant population.
Impact of the raids on migrants
Since early June, the region has faced a wave of raids in areas such as MacArthur Park and plantations in Ventura County, resulting in more than 1,600 arrests and widespread fear, so much so that many families have stopped going to work, school or the doctor.
The County Board of Supervisors approved complementary measures that expand access to health, social assistance and legal services for affected families.
Several organizations and entities are providing solidarity and financial support:
The Los Angeles Dodgers donated $1 million for direct assistance to immigrant families, earmarking funds for legal services, mental health and basic needs.
The California Community Foundation created a specific fund to support NGOs responding to the humanitarian crisis caused by the raids.
Cities such as Montebello and Santa Ana have approved emergency funds (about $100,000) for resources such as food, rent, legal services, and psychological support.
What is recommended to those affected?
Access help: contact CHIRLA, Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles and other local NGOs if your family members were affected.
Know your rights: do not sign anything without legal advice and demand access to information about detentions.
Participate and share: help spread the word about these initiatives and mobilize with your community to strengthen mutual support.
Las políticas migratorias de Trump están causando estragos entre los migrantes y sus familiares están siendo objeto de mucho estrés y asedio
Los Angeles government action
The Los Angeles action stands out for bringing together public and private resources, from local government – in coordination with civil organizations – to sports institutions such as the Dodgers.
This sends a clear message: the city is determined to protect its immigrant residents.
For Hispanics in the U.S., this package of measures represents a safety net in times of uncertainty, showing that community solidarity, combined with inclusive policies, can make a real difference in the lives of many migrant families.
Find out more at ‘QueOnnda.com’.
