The City of Hillsboro is reaching out to lend a hand where it’s needed most, providing a $200,000 boost to local nonprofits aiding community members grappling with the repercussions of ICE actions. This financial aid is earmarked to support legal services, food assistance, and rent aid, as confirmed by an official announcement.
Allocated from the City’s general fund, these funds are set to quickly impact a slew of services in the area. "Getting this funding directly to community partners and service providers allows us quickly to address our community’s most pressing needs for legal services, food assistance, and more," stated Mayor Beach Pace, who emphasized the importance of acting swiftly to support those in the crosshairs of federal immigration enforcement. The distribution process was initiated during a City Council meeting on November 3 and involved direct engagement with community-based organizations (CBOs).
With 35 CBOs eagerly submitting 54 applications, a careful selection process whittled down the recipients to 11 nonprofits. Notable among them are the Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization (IRCO), awarded $25,000 for legal services, and SOAR Immigration Legal Services and St. Andrews Legal Clinic, each receiving $40,000 in the same category. Food assistance grants will bolster the efforts of organizations like the Boys & Girls Club of the Portland Metro Area and the Latino Network. Together We Are Greater Than was designated $10,000 for rent assistance. The funding structure prioritizes Legal Services and Food Assistance in line with the City Council's outlined priorities.
According to City Manager Robby Hammond, the acknowledgment of the need was clear, driving the City's resolve to stand with the community. "We know that there are more needs in our community so, we will continue to work with CBOs to find ways to support community members most impacted," Hammond articulated in a recent statement. The details surrounding these grants and potential ventures to financially support additional needs will be up for discussion at the City Council work session scheduled for December 16.
Those interested in the full scope of Hillsboro's commitment can find more information by visiting the city’s new webpage, which lays out the plan to support those affected by immigration enforcement measures relentlessly. To learn more, visit the City of Hillsboro at https://www.hillsboro-oregon.gov/Home/Components/News/News/17100/4300.
