Title
a. Receive an oral report regarding the planning and potential implementation of a Storm Recovery Rent Subsidy program for farmworkers negatively impacted by the recent weather disaster events; and
b. Provide direction for implementing a rental assistance program for farm workers affected by the winter storms.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Receives an oral report regarding the planning and potential implementation of a Storm Recovery Rent Subsidy program for farmworkers negatively impacted by the recent weather disaster events; and
b. Provide direction for implementing a rental assistance program for farmworkers affected by the winter storms.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
Board Referral No. 2023.04 Storm Recovery Rent Subsidy Program for Farmworkers, seeks to establish a Rent Subsidy Program for agricultural workers adversely impacted by the recent weather-related disaster who do not otherwise qualify for other forms of federal or state disaster recovery assistance.
The original planning for this benefit program was done in response to the recovery from the atmospheric river weather disaster event with occurred at the beginning of 2023. The plan was to create a targeted response to those most vulnerable and in need farmworkers negatively impacted by the storms who do not have access to other forms of state and federal disaster recovery assistance programs.
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Monterey participated in the Local Assister Center (LAC) operations after the first weather disaster and received at least 2000 requests for services, with majority of those seeking assistance identifying the agricultural industry as their major source of income. 82% of people in this group had reduced income as a result of the storms. Those who connected with Catholic Charities at the LAC requested the following services: 48% rent assistance 28% food assistance 6% utilities assistance. Area of residence: 38% Salinas 31% Green...
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