Archbishop Gomez launches new program to help immigrants facing hardship

Archbishop José H. Gomez launched the new Family Assistance Program today to aid parishes throughout the Archdiocese of Los Angeles as they continue to work to provide needed services and direct support, such as groceries, meals and prescription deliveries, to help those who have been impacted by the recent immigration enforcement policies. Every dollar contributed goes directly to helping those in crisis — administered through Archdiocesan parishes and outreach ministries, many of whom are already walking with families in need.

“This is a challenging moment for our community,” Archbishop Gomez said. “Many of our friends and family, our neighbors and fellow parishioners, are afraid and anxious. These are good, hard-working men and women, people of faith, people who have been in this country for a long time and are making important contributions to our economy. Now they are afraid to go to work or be seen in public for fear that they will get arrested and be deported. This new Archdiocesan fund is designed to help our brothers and sisters in this difficult moment.”

Archbishop Gomez was joined in making the announcement by Auxiliary Bishop Matthew Elshoff for Our Lady of the Angels Pastoral Region of the Archdiocese and Msgr. Timothy Dyer, pastor at St. Patrick Church in South Los Angeles, clergy of the Archdiocese as it was the Archdiocesan Council of Priests that envisioned the Family Assistance Program, parishioners who serve those in the immigrant community who are in need, and generous program donors and partners in making the announcement today at St. Patrick Church.

The Catholic Association for Latino Leadership (CALL) and Parishioners Federal Credit Union have committed to stand with our parishes to support our immigrant brothers and sisters along with the family of Vallarta Supermarkets who have committed to provide much needed gift cards for groceries and household goods for our immigrant brothers and sisters who are facing uncertainty.

“CALL is honored to partner with the Archdiocese and fellow donors to support the efforts of our Catholic parishes to help our immigrant communities during these difficult times,” Michael Molina, Chair of the Board of Directors for CALL. “As Catholics, we are called to share God’s mercy with those in need. At this moment of uncertainty for so many in our communities, we reiterate our commitment to live the teachings of the Gospels of love and compassion for our immigrant brothers and sisters and helping to strengthen our vibrant communities that are a vital part of our Archdiocese and our nation.”

Businessman and philanthropist, Rick Caruso, announced a contribution and commitment to match the donations of others today.

“I am proud to help support these families who work hard, pay taxes and contribute to our economy. America is a nation of immigrants, which is why I am teaming up with the Archdiocese of Los Angeles to provide direct support for families that are struggling financially because a family member has been detained in these raids,” said Caruso. “To start, I am giving $50,000 upfront and will match every dollar given up to $50,000 from the website. We need to help these families and working with the Archdiocese we can provide much needed relief at a time when many are struggling to get by.”

David Socha, CEO of the Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Company has contributed both financially and by donating toys to bring comfort to children facing fear and uncertainty in this difficult time.

“We can’t forget the human aspect of these issues,” said Socha. “We need to follow Christ’s example, to love our neighbor as ourself. These are real people, real families, and in the vast majority wonderful people. No matter what side of this issue you are on, the children are some of the worst affected by the recent enforcement actions. We are glad to be able to bring them, and their loved ones, comfort and support.”

Across Southern California, Catholic parishes have seen the painful effects of families suddenly separated – parents unable to return home, children unsure of when they will see their loved ones again, and households left without income to meet even their most basic needs. The Archdiocese is grateful to all the donors and partners who have committed to walking with our immigrant community during these challenging times supporting parishes in providing needed services and direct support for those who are most in need.

The Archdiocese invites others to join this urgent ministry of mercy. All contributions to this program offer critical support and hope to families in need. To make a donation, please visit: lacatholics.org/immigrant-support.

If someone needs assistance, they may contact their local parish, or find a nearby parish by zip code at lacatholics.org/find/?type=parishes.