Long Beach Leaders Support Fund for Immigrant Families Amidst Crisis
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The Long Beach City Council has officially launched the “Long Beach Neighbors Supporting Neighbors” Fund, aimed at providing crucial support to immigrant families facing economic hardships due to recent immigration enforcement actions. This initiative was announced during a government meeting on July 20, 2025, where community leaders emphasized the urgent need for assistance in light of rising fears and trauma within local immigrant populations.
Community representatives, including leaders from the Cambodian and Filipino communities, highlighted the significant impact of immigration policies on their families. Susanna Sinem, executive director of the United Cambodian Community, shared that over 35 Cambodian individuals have been separated from their families this year alone, creating a climate of fear that hinders their ability to work and access essential services. She stressed that the fund will help provide emotional and mental support, allowing families to address critical needs beyond just food and shelter.
Romeo Hebron, executive director of the Filipino Migrant Center, echoed these sentiments, noting that many Filipino caregivers and workers are afraid to leave their homes due to the threat of detention. He called for community contributions to the fund, emphasizing its importance in supporting families who are struggling to cope with the economic fallout from immigration raids.
The fund aims to raise $2.2 million to support legal assistance and community navigators, which are essential for preventing further trauma from deportation. Local leaders expressed gratitude to the city and the California Community Foundation for their commitment to investing in the immigrant community during these challenging times.
As the meeting concluded, community advocates urged residents to contribute to the fund, reinforcing the message that collective support is vital for helping neighbors in need. The launch of the “Long Beach Neighbors Supporting Neighbors” Fund marks a significant step towards fostering resilience and solidarity within the diverse communities of Long Beach.
Community representatives, including leaders from the Cambodian and Filipino communities, highlighted the significant impact of immigration policies on their families. Susanna Sinem, executive director of the United Cambodian Community, shared that over 35 Cambodian individuals have been separated from their families this year alone, creating a climate of fear that hinders their ability to work and access essential services. She stressed that the fund will help provide emotional and mental support, allowing families to address critical needs beyond just food and shelter.
Romeo Hebron, executive director of the Filipino Migrant Center, echoed these sentiments, noting that many Filipino caregivers and workers are afraid to leave their homes due to the threat of detention. He called for community contributions to the fund, emphasizing its importance in supporting families who are struggling to cope with the economic fallout from immigration raids.
The fund aims to raise $2.2 million to support legal assistance and community navigators, which are essential for preventing further trauma from deportation. Local leaders expressed gratitude to the city and the California Community Foundation for their commitment to investing in the immigrant community during these challenging times.
As the meeting concluded, community advocates urged residents to contribute to the fund, reinforcing the message that collective support is vital for helping neighbors in need. The launch of the “Long Beach Neighbors Supporting Neighbors” Fund marks a significant step towards fostering resilience and solidarity within the diverse communities of Long Beach.
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