California will create a $125 million disaster assistance fund for undocumented residents who have not benefited from the federal stimulus or expanded unemployment benefits, Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) announced Wednesday in a news briefing.
The state government will provide $75 million, and philanthropic contributions will account for $50 million. Newsom pointed out that 10 percent of California’s workforce is undocumented, providing work in major industries such as agriculture and the service sector. Eligible undocumented immigrants can receive up to $1,000 per family and $500 per individual through the fund.