MassUndocuFund Sets Goal of Raising $1 Million For Undocumented Immigrants During COVID-19 Crisis

BOSTON – A new fundraiser has been created to help undocumented immigrants during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The goal of MassUndocuFund is to raise $1 million for undocumented immigrants in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to help with rent, groceries, medicine, transportation, utilities, and funerals, if needed.

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“During this crisis, we have to show that we have each other’s backs. That’s why we’re launching MassUndocuFund to fundraise relief funds for undocumented workers in our state” said the newly-founded organization.

The Massachusetts UndocuFund is an ambitious effort to provide direct assistance to undocumented immigrants in our state during the Coronavirus crisis, said the organization.

The organization was founded by Massachusetts Jobs with Justice, MataHari Workers Center, and the Restaurant Opportunity Center in March 2020.

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“An estimated 200,000 undocumented immigrants live and work in Massachusetts. Unlike other victims, undocumented immigrants do not qualify for assistance from unemployment benefits and other federal relief efforts,” said the organization.

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has about 250,000 undocumented immigrants, according to Pew Research in 2017.

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“Even when they do qualify for services and resources, many undocumented immigrants are unlikely to pursue those benefits due to fear of immigration enforcement, lack of familiarity with official institutions, and limited English proficiency,” said the organization.

The CARES Act to help individuals during this pandemic is only available to those who file taxes using a Social Security number. Many undocumented immigrants do not have a Social Security number.

“At every turn, our undocumented neighbors face barriers and challenges to recovering from the pandemic,” said the organization.

To donate, click here.