Undocumented Get Help in Washington For COVID-19 Relief

Millions of dollars will soon go to undocumented immigrants in the state according to the Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network (WAISN), the largest immigrant-led organization in Washington State. The organization has launched what's called the Washington COVID-19 Immigrant Relief Fund giving $340 million in economic relief to undocumented immigrants impacted by COVID-19. Those who are eligible can apply and receive at least $1,000 in help that will be available between December and January.

The organization has worked for years to help immigrants in the state

A press release says for many years the Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network has been working with the Washington State government "to increase healthcare access for immigrants, and swiftly expanded the scope of their demands for economic relief when the pandemic struck in 2020 to ensure immigrants were not left behind."
“Immigrants have been on the frontlines of our communities and our economy during the pandemic, but do not have access to resources or benefits like healthcare, stimulus checks, or the ability to work from home,” says Brenda Rodriguez Lopez, Executive Director at WAISN. “The Washington Immigrant Relief Fund is the largest of its type in Washington State, and WAISN is proud of this opportunity to bring resources and relief to our community.”

The program opens for applications September 19

Funding is available to undocumented immigrants who have lost jobs, contracted the virus, or have cared for a family member who contracted it.

The press release says "applications for the Washington Immigrant Relief Fund open on September 19 and will close on November 14."
Officials say applicants must live in Washington State, be at least 18 years old, and have been significantly affected by the pandemic.
They says "people who are eligible to receive federal stimulus funds or unemployment insurance because of immigration status are not eligible for the Washington Immigrant Relief Fund. This may include refugees, asylum seekers, COFA migrants, and DACA applicants who receive federal funds and unemployment benefits."

For more information or application assistance, visit immigrantreliefwa.org or call the WAISN hotline at 1 -844-724-3737.

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