In just three days, half a million residents of the city of Los Angeles, who have lost their jobs or had their work hours reduced due to the coronavirus, applied for financial assistance through the Angel Angelino Card ’program; and there will be up to 45,000 beneficiaries.
The cash aid that began to be distributed on Wednesday, April 22, was not enough for everyone; and although it was only for those who live within the city of Los Angeles, residents of 133 cities applied for assistance, without success, as they do not qualify.
The Angelino Card initiative was promoted by Mayor Eric Garcetti to raise donations to help undocumented immigrants and other low-income Los Angeles residents facing job unemployment.
"More than $ 10 million in private donations were raised to be distributed among 10,000 to 15,000 prepaid debit cards with no added fees that are accepted everywhereSaid Yusef Robb, spokesman for Mayor Garcetti's office.
"Debit cards were delivered directly to the beneficiary, and in person," he said.
In total, it helped Between 30,000 and 45,000 Angelenos with cards for amounts between $ 700, $ 1,100 and $ 1,500. "The immigration status was not asked," the spokesperson clarified.
A family of one or two people was eligible to receive a $ 700 card; one of three to four members, $ 1,100; and one of five or more took $ 1,500 home.
Robb explained that the requirements to qualify for the aid were, residing within the city of Los Angeles, loss of employment or reduction of working hours, and living below the federal poverty level.
"The requests were made on-line and by telephone, and those selected were summoned so that they could personally present proof that they have lost their jobs; as well as their tax returns to prove that they need the income, ”he said.
In those interviews carried out in 12 community centers located in various parts of the city, those who met the requirements received their debit cards to make them effective the day after delivery.
In California, a person is considered to live below 200% of the federal poverty level when they earn $ 24,980 a year; in the case of a couple, $ 33,830; and a family of four, $ 51,500.
When we asked Robb, how was the final selection of beneficiaries among those who met the requirements made, he said, through a computer, practically at random.
"The plan is to continue raising funds to help more Angelenos during this crisis"
Announcing Mayor Garcetti, the debit card program to assist Angelenos, he said it is essential that we keep as many families as we can out of this crisis during this time.
“Neighbors helping neighbors can make a huge difference. That is what the Angelino Campaign is about. ”
Expected to assist janitors, daycare, beauty salons, and stylists who are not eligible for many forms of financial aidhe added.
One of those who contributed donations, was the star of the National Basketball Association (NBA), Russell Westbrook. To donate, you can send the text LALOVE to 21000, or visit mayorsfundla.org/Angeleno
