September 7, 2021

International Institute of Los Angeles applauds the recent announcement from California Governor Gavin Newsom and legislative leadership to request $16.7 million in general funds to provide assistance to Afghan refugees arriving in the state. IILA calls on the California assembly to approve this proposed general fund expenditure this week.

This expansion of funding will assist many Afghans arrivals, including vulnerable evacuees under humanitarian parole who are ineligible for some refugee benefits and services. The proposed temporary expansion of state public benefits are critical to helping our Afghan allies successfully resettle and start new lives as Californians. 

“I am proud that California has been and always will be a place of refuge for those seeking safety or a better life – especially for those who served our country, like many of the Afghan refugees coming to America, and to California,” said Governor Newsom.

“These refugees gave our service members help in Afghanistan and it is only fitting we give them hope when they come to California,” said Senate President pro Tempore Toni G. Atkins. “When I was growing up, the golden rule was that no matter how little you had, you help those in need. We are blessed to be in a position in California where we have enough funding to help ease these refugees’ transition into our society, and I am pleased the state is joining with so many other organizations and individuals who are doing the right thing.”

Read the full statement of the Office of the Governor of California here.

IILA is also proud to be listed among the organizations providing aid for Afghan families throughout the state by the California Department of Social Services.