The Los Angeles Archdiocese has initiated an aid program to support immigrant families facing various crises. The program aims to provide essential resources and assistance to vulnerable immigrant families within the archdiocese. Details about the specific types of aid and support offered by the program are available. The initiative reflects the archdiocese's commitment to serving the needs of the immigrant community.
3 months ago
The Archdiocese of Los Angeles, under the leadership of Archbishop José H. Gómez, has launched the "Family Assistance Program" to provide essential services to immigrant families affected by recent immigration enforcement policies 2 4 5. Unveiled at a press conference on July 23 at St. Patrick Church in South Los Angeles, this initiative is believed to be the first of its kind in a U.S. Catholic diocese 2 4 5. The program aims to offer direct aid, such as groceries, meals, and prescription deliveries, ensuring "every dollar" goes directly to those in crisis, regardless of religious affiliation 2 4 5.
The program responds to a "climate of uncertainty and fear" among immigrant communities in Los Angeles County, following weeks of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids by heavily armed agents at local businesses and on city sidewalks 2 4 5. Although a federal judge in Los Angeles temporarily blocked ICE’s "roving patrols" on July 11, the fear persists 2 4 5. Archbishop Gómez highlighted that many "good, hardworking men and women" are now afraid to go to work or be seen in public due to deportation fears 2. This situation has led to family separations, loss of income, and a reluctance among immigrants to leave their homes 2. Msgr. John Moretta, pastor of Resurrection Church, noted an unprecedented level of fear, and some parishes, like St. Patrick's, have seen church attendance drop by as much as 50% 4 5. In response to these fears, the bishop of San Bernardino, Alberto Rojas, even granted a dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass 2.
The Family Assistance Program is a collaborative effort, partnering the archdiocese with area businesses and philanthropists 2 4 5. Significant contributions have been pledged, including $10,000 from the Catholic Association for Latino Leadership (CALL), $10,000 in grocery gift cards from Vallarta Supermarkets, and financial donations from Parishioners Federal Credit Union 2 4 5. Real estate mogul Rick Caruso donated $50,000 and committed to matching additional donations up to $50,000 made through the archdiocese’s website 2 4 5. The CEO of the Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Company, David Socha, also contributed financially and donated toys to comfort affected children, emphasizing the human aspect of the crisis 2 4 5.
Archbishop Gómez affirmed that the archdiocese is working with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass to "find a practical, peaceful solution to the situation with the federal authorities" 2 4 5. Business leaders like Rick Caruso echoed the call for political leaders to "fix this broken system," emphasizing the vital economic contributions of immigrant families to the region 4 5. The program is designed to bolster existing parish-based outreach ministries, such as the food bank at Resurrection Church, which serves hundreds of families weekly 4 5.
How does the Church define charity towards immigrants?
The Catholic Church defines charity towards immigrants as a fundamental expression of Christian love and solidarity, rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ and the inherent dignity of every human person . This charity is not merely an act of benevolence but a moral responsibility that calls believers to recognize Christ in the immigrant and to work for their well-being and integration into society .
The Church's understanding of charity towards immigrants is multifaceted:
While emphasizing the Church's duty to welcome, the Catechism of the Catholic Church also states that immigrants are obliged to respect with gratitude the material and spiritual heritage of the receiving country, obey its laws, and assist in carrying civic burdens . The Church affirms the rule of law and encourages the use of lawful immigration pathways . However, it recognizes that refugees and asylum seekers, who are forced migrants, often cannot pursue ordinary channels due to life-threatening situations, giving rise to a human right to seek protection through irregular means .
In essence, Catholic charity towards immigrants is a holistic approach that combines spiritual conviction with practical action, aiming to uphold the dignity of every person and build a more just and supportive society .