Montebello: the Californian town that approved a budget of $100,000 to protect migrants
This site will allocate resources to provide workshops and legal advice to the community
In a show of direct support for its migrant community, the City Council of Montebello, California, approved on June 30, 2025, an emergency fund of $100,000 to support local families affected by recent ICE raids.
The measure was unanimously approved during a special session of the City Council and joins other county efforts to safeguard the well-being and rights of migrants, according to KTLA.
Benefits of the fund for the migrant community
The Montebello Humanitarian Services program will offer several key supports:
By implementing it quickly, the City Council will seek to alleviate the immediate effects of the raids. Local officials stressed that "this fund is a lifeline in times of uncertainty" for many affected families.
The immigration situation in Montebello
Montebello, with a population that is nearly 78% Latino and more than 38% of residents born outside the United States according to the 2020 census, has experienced tense moments due to the growing presence of ICE.
In June, multiple operations took place in the city, where agents even detained people at local workplaces, such as a tow truck yard. This also led to the cancellation of a film event in the town and the distribution of the so-called red card to residents, which consists of a quick guide to act appropriately and cordially with immigration authorities.
Locally, residents reported that the operations left people hiding in their homes and caused economic and emotional distress. Community organizations mobilized to provide support to the affected families, describing the actions as “militarized” and “violating civil rights.”
Situation in California: Progress and Tensions
California has led pro-immigrant policies:From free legal loans and driver's licenses for undocumented immigrants to programs like "Know Your Rights" and expanded health coverage. However, recent federal raids, like those in Montebello, have challenged this vision, forcing municipalities to reserve local funds and face intense social pressure. Continue reading: "We will stand firm": Mayor defies federal lawsuit against Los Angeles How to identify an ICE agent and what methods they use to enter your home Another incident of arrests of day laborers at Home Depot in Los Angeles