CARECEN-LA Receives $1 Million Gift from The Change Reaction to Support Immigrant Community Members

Funding will provide critical financial assistance for DACA fees, green card applications, and other citizenship-related expenses, helping hundreds of immigrants.

LOS ANGELES, (Cal.), October 23, 2024 – The Central American Resource Center (CARECEN) announced today a $1 million gift from The Change Reaction that will directly provide grants for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) fees, green card filing fees, and other citizenship-related costs, offering crucial financial relief to over 1,000 immigrants seeking to secure or adjust their legal status.

CARECEN, the largest Central American immigrant rights organization in the United States, has a long-standing mission to empower immigrants and advocate for their rights. The organization provides comprehensive legal services, community education, and policy advocacy to help immigrants thrive. This gift will significantly expand CARECEN's ability to assist individuals and families facing financial barriers to obtaining or renewing legal status, helping to expedite the process and reduce wait times for applicants.

The Change Reaction, which provides direct financial support to thousands of hardworking individuals and families across Los Angeles each year, urgently committed $1 million to this effort. The partnership with CARECEN presents an opportunity to assist approximately 1,000 hard working immigrants who have lived in the United States for a minimum of 3 years with crucial work permits and pathways to citizenship.

“We are so happy to be able to partner with CARECEN to help these amazing immigrants who are on the path to become U.S. citizens,” said Greg Perlman, founder of The Change Reaction. “We want to honor these determined individuals who are working important jobs that keep our city running, and we are committed to supporting them during these critical moments."

“We are proud to partner with a foundation like The Change Reaction, which provides critical financial assistance to stabilize and strengthen working Angelenos and their families," said Martha Arevalo, Executive Director of CARECEN-LA. "The grant from The Change Reaction will support approximately 1,000 immigrants in the Los Angeles community. In times of constant attacks and hateful rhetoric, it is uplifting to see foundations like The Change Reaction committed to supporting our communities, paving the way for others to reinvest in their neighborhoods.”

The $1 million gift marks a significant investment in the future of Los Angeles's immigrant communities, enabling CARECEN to expand its reach and provide much-needed financial support during a critical time. By removing barriers to legal status, this partnership will help ensure that immigrants can continue to contribute meaningfully to the city’s economy and cultural fabric. With this funding, CARECEN and The Change Reaction are setting a powerful example of how community-focused support can create lasting change.

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About CARECEN

Founded in 1983, CARECEN is the largest Central American immigrant rights organization in the U.S., dedicated to empowering immigrants and advocating for social justice. The organization offers legal services, community education, and policy advocacy to support immigrant communities and promote their rights.

About The Change Reaction

The Change Reaction provides direct financial support to thousands of hardworking individuals and families across Los Angeles each year through grants and loans in times of need. With a network of nearly 1,500 social workers and partnerships with over 150 nonprofits, it offers critical financial assistance to stabilize and strengthen working Angelenos and their families.