New Jersey's $40 million fund for undocumented immigrants and other workers excluded from pandemic relief money is now accepting applications.
Residents who were ineligible for federal aid or unemployment benefits are eligible if they prove they were financially impacted by the pandemic and don’t earn more than $55,000 annually.
Governor Phil Murphy set aside leftover federal stimulus money after more than a year of pressure and demonstrations from immigrant rights groups, including a 24-day hunger strike.
“This fund is an important first step for New Jersey, but its release comes over a year-and-a-half after the first federal relief checks were deposited,” Amy Torres, executive director of the New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice said in a statement. She and other advocates said they would continue to push Murphy and lawmakers “for every last penny that our excluded families deserve.”
Immigrant advocates estimate the money will only reach 10% of those who need it. Neighboring New York had set aside $2 billion dollars for its undocumented workforce.
Individuals can receive a one-time payment of $1,000 and households can receive up to $2,000. Applications will be considered in the order they are received and until the money runs out, officials said.
“We urge individuals who meet the eligibility requirements for these benefits and who can provide the required documentation to apply once the application opens” said Johanna Calle, director of the Office of New Americans, that is overseeing the program.
The immigrant advocacy group Make the Road New Jersey will be hosting an in-person information session Thursday at 6 p.m. to help people apply. The meeting will be held at 42 Broad St. in Elizabeth. Those eligible can also text ALIVIO to 52886 for more information provided by advocacy groups. Make the Road New Jersey will also hold Facebook livestreams on Fridays at 7 p.m. to provide more information.
To apply visit excludednjfund.nj.gov.
