Disaster Relief Assistance for Immigrants

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13 May, 2020 5:00 AM

Disaster Relief Assistance for Immigrants

Hotline Hours

(213)-315-2659

9 am - 5 pm

Monday- Friday

The State of California is providing one-time disaster relief assistance to undocumented adult immigrants impacted by COVID-19, who are excluded from most forms of federal pandemic assistance, including direct assistance under the CARES Act and pandemic unemployment assistance.

What is DRAI?

The Disaster Relief Assistance for Immigrants (DRAI) project is a one-time state-funded disaster relief assistance for undocumented adult immigrants impacted by COVID-19. An undocumented adult who qualifies can receive $500 in direct assistance, with a maximum of $1000 in assistance per household.

How do I apply for the DRAI Program?

Starting May 18th, if you are eligible to apply for this assistance, call 213-315-2659. CARECEN will only be allowed to assist individuals with their DRAI application if they reside in Los Angeles County.

How do I know if I am eligible to receive DRAI?

To apply you must be able to provide information that you (1) are an undocumented adult (person over the age of 18); (2) are not eligible for federal COVID-19 related assistance, like the CARES Act tax stimulus payments or pandemic unemployment benefits; and, (3) have experienced a hardship as a result of COVID-19.

What documents do I need to apply for DRAI?

You must provide information and documents to verify your identity, home or mailing address, and to show they have been impacted by COVID-19.

Will receiving this assistance make me a public charge and affect my ability to apply for a green card (i.e. legal permanent resident status)?

This disaster relief assistance is not means-tested and is one-time assistance. The federal government does not list this assistance as a public benefit for a public charge consideration. However, USCIS has not issued specific guidance related to this assistance. If you have questions about your immigration status and this assistance project, please consult an immigration attorney.