Nonprofits to Provide Free Legal and Rental Assistance for Immigrants at Mexican Heritage Plaza
Title: Nonprofits to Provide Free Legal and Rental Assistance for Immigrants at Mexican Heritage Plaza
East San Jose’s Mexican Heritage Plaza, known for hosting cultural events and vaccination sites, will now serve as a hub for free legal and rental assistance for immigrants in the Latino community. A group of nonprofits, including the Rapid Response Network of Santa Clara County, will come together to offer crucial support to undocumented immigrants.
The event, announced by the Rapid Response Network on Thursday, will take place this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 1700 Alum Rock Avenue in San Jose. Undocumented community members can receive one-on-one time with immigration attorneys and guidance through the rental assistance application process.
Father John Pedigo of Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County emphasized the importance of supporting essential workers who have been contributing to Silicon Valley’s economy. The event aims to address the inequities faced by undocumented immigrants who are often excluded from federal relief programs.
With approximately 180,000 undocumented immigrants in Santa Clara County, the Rapid Response Network’s efforts are part of a broader movement to protect immigrants from deportation raids. The network provides legal assistance and hotlines to report deportations, as well as a hotline to report federal immigration agents in the area.
Despite the lack of federal COVID relief for undocumented residents, local initiatives have been launched to provide assistance. The network’s lead immigration attorney, Luis Angel Reyes Savalza, highlighted the importance of not letting down the guard in supporting vulnerable communities.
The event hopes to provide relief to individuals like Antonia Sandoval, who contracted COVID-19 and struggled to find work afterward. Through financial assistance for rent, Sandoval found relief and hope, urging others in the immigrant community to seek help during difficult times.
The Rapid Response Network of Santa Clara County, comprised of various nonprofits, is committed to supporting immigrants in need. For more information on the network, visit their website.
In a time of ongoing challenges for undocumented immigrants, the free legal and rental assistance event at the Mexican Heritage Plaza offers a beacon of hope and support for those in need.