On Sunday, October 19, federal immigration agencies — including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) — carried out a show of force in Santa Ana, detaining residents on our own city streets. These raids are not isolated events. They are part of a growing pattern of fear and intimidation that targets immigrant families who contribute to and strengthen our city

In moments like these, our community needs leadership. The Ayuda Sin Fronteras Program was created to help families directly impacted by immigration raids, providing emergency financial assistance for rent, utilities, food, and basic necessities. Since its launch in July 2025, the program has supported 101 households and 198 individuals, proving itself to be a vital lifeline for families in crisis. But with funds exhausted after only three months, dozens of families have been left without help, and many are still waiting for updates on their applications.

With ICE’s $75 billion federal budget and immigration enforcement intensifying, Santa Ana must step up to protect its residents. We are calling on the City Council to expand Ayuda Sin Fronteras by allocating at least $500,000, and revisiting the original $1 million proposal from the City’s $74 million reserve fund. These resources would ensure the program continues through the rest of the fiscal year and reaches more households in need.

The City has the opportunity to stand with immigrant families and reaffirm Santa Ana’s commitment to protecting its most vulnerable residents.