The City of Commerce expands support for residents impacted by immigration enforcement

Commerce, CA – The City of Commerce has moved purposefully to assist residents impacted by federal immigration enforcement, launching and sustaining an organized set of legal, housing, food, and education resources to help families remain supported.

“As a City, we didn’t wait to react, and instead we acted,” said Mayor Lainez. “We remain committed to prioritizing the safety and well-being of our residents through unprecedented times.”

To date, the City has invested $50,000 in direct resident assistance, allocating $25,000 to legal consultations through the Support for Households in Immigration Emergencies and Legal Defense (SHIELD) program and $25,000 to short-term rental assistance for residents financially impacted by ICE activity.

Since last year, the City has delivered multiple legal workshops with immigration attorneys and public safety experts, provided monthly emergency food distributions, distributed free Know Your Rights Red Cards citywide, offered ongoing citizenship support through our Commerce Public Library’s Literacy Center, and organized a donation drive through by our Teen Center.

At the Jan. 27 City Council meeting, the Commerce City Council unanimously approved a $25,000 legal aid fund toward SHIELD, expanding the City’s ongoing efforts to support residents impacted by federal immigration enforcement actions. SHIELD will provide residents with access to their initial legal consultation with qualified immigration attorney at no cost. All information shared will remain confidential and will not be shared with the City.

The SHIELD program was developed at the recommendation of City Manager Ernie Hernandez, who prioritized the allocation of City resources to ensure families impacted receive timely legal support.

The City is dedicated to helping residents better understand their rights, available resources, and next steps during immigration emergencies. This continued investment reflects the City’s values of prioritizing resident welfare, equity, and access to critical services. For more information about the SHIELD program and available resources, visit: www.commerceca.gov/immigrationresources

For media inquiries, please contact Media Specialist Katherine Tong at ktong@commerceca.gov.