Catholic Charities Receives Funding to Strengthen Immigration Legal Services Across the Central Coast
Catholic Charities Secures $1.5 Million to Expand Immigration Services on the Central Coast
Catholic Charities Diocese of Monterey is proud to share exciting news that will strengthen our mission of serving immigrant families across the Central Coast. Thanks to the leadership of Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay), our agency has been awarded $1.5 million in state funding to expand vital immigration services in Monterey, San Benito, Santa Cruz, and San Luis Obispo Counties.
This funding comes as part of a $5 million statewide allocation secured through SB 104 and signed by Governor Gavin Newsom. Assembly members Addis and Esmeralda Soria championed this effort to ensure that underserved regions—including the Central Coast and Central Valley—receive the legal service infrastructure they urgently need.
Supporting Families in a Time of Need
The investment will allow Catholic Charities to strengthen legal representation, expand rapid response services, and provide critical community education for immigrant families. At a time when many families are facing heightened uncertainty, these resources will help protect rights, keep families safe, and foster resilience in our communities.
Assemblymember Addis underscored the importance of this moment, stating:
“Immigrants keep our communities and economy strong by building businesses, contributing to our workforce, and helping our region thrive. This funding strengthens our commitment to defend Californians, safeguard families, and ensure that every Central Coast resident receives full and fair representation.”
A Commitment to Service for Over 40 Years
Founded in 1984, Catholic Charities Diocese of Monterey has been a trusted partner for families in need for over four decades. Through programs that provide food security, housing support, and immigration legal services, Catholic Charities serves thousands of individuals each year with compassion, dignity, and respect.
Executive Director Angela Di Novella expressed gratitude for the state’s investment:
“We are honored to receive this support from the State, which recognizes the critical importance of the work we’re doing across our four counties. This investment affirms our commitment to make a lasting impact and expand our reach at a time when so many of our neighbors, who are the backbone of our community, are facing urgent and growing challenges.”
Looking Ahead
This new funding marks an important step forward in ensuring immigrant families across the Central Coast have access to the resources and representation they deserve. Catholic Charities Diocese of Monterey remains committed to walking alongside our neighbors in need, guided by our mission of providing hope, compassion, and dignity to all.
Assemblymember Dawn Addis Press Release:
KSBY Article about the Funding:
Funding helps expand immigration services on the Central Coast
Noticias Article:
Members of our Immigration Legal Services team, joined by dedicated volunteers, at a Immigration Legal clinic in Salinas, CA.
Executive Director Angela Di Novella attending a Pajaro Valley Collaborative Event.
Catholic Charities’ Legal Team member Chris Peterson speaking at the Seaside Immigration Forum.