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The MassUndocufund For Covid-19 Relief in Massachusetts Is Currently Raising Funds To Assist The Victims Of Covid-19 Pandemic, Which Has Caused Thousands Of Undocumented Workers to Lose Their Jobs And Livelihood Across The State

The Need

The number of families impacted is still unknown as the business closures and more social distancing measures are being ordered. However, the impact is real and for undocumented families, federal help is not available. An estimated 250,000 undocumented immigrants live and work in Massachusetts. Unlike other pandemic victims, undocumented immigrants do not qualify for federal assistance such as FEMA nor Unemployment benefits.

Even when they or their children are eligible for resources and services, their lack of immigration status, limited English proficiency, and fear of immigration enforcement prevent them from seeking assistance. Their fear, discomfort or lack of familiarity with law enforcement, county government, and mainstream aid organizations present additional barriers. In addition, many fundraisers from non-profits, local government, and individuals/groups have barriers that prevent undocumented families from applying, such as communication and translation to outreach and relationships with immigrant communities. At every turn, our undocumented neighbors face barriers and challenges to recovering from the pandemic.

MassUndocuFund is a partnership among Massachusetts-based grassroots immigrant organizations and workers centers that have a solid reputation, strong track record, and are known to and trusted by many undocumented residents, including Massachusetts Jobs with Justice, MataHari Women’s Worker Centers, and One Fair Wage. The MassUndocuFund is supported by a large network of immigrant-serving organizations that have close ties to immigrant communities across Massachusetts and that helped publicize the fund and identify eligible individuals and families. As a result, the MassUndocuFund is more likely to reach undocumented pandemic victims than other relief efforts.

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