Immigration Rights & Community Resources

In response to recent federal immigration enforcement actions, the City of Whittier is taking steps to support affected residents through funding, resources, and local partnerships. This page is your resource for understanding your rights and accessing assistance available through trusted community organizations.

City Council Resolution No. 2025-38

On August 12, 2025, the Whittier City Council unanimously adopted a resolution affirming the City’s commitment to protecting Whittier residents and addressing the local impacts of federal immigration enforcement.

Key actions include:

  • Maintaining current WPD policy prohibiting engagement in immigration enforcement, consistent with state law
  • Providing $130,000 in emergency relief to the Hispanic Outreach Taskforce and Interfaith Food Center
  • Offering $50,000 in legal support funding for community-based organizations assisting with immigration paperwork
  • Temporarily waiving passport application fees processed through the City
  • Making “Know Your Rights” materials available in English and Spanish at City facilities and online
  • Engaging local businesses impacted by enforcement activity
  • Urging state legislators to make impersonating a law enforcement or immigration officer a felony
  • Advocating for state and federal immigration reform and expedited citizenship processing

Read the full resolution here: Resolution No. 2025-38

Know Your Rights

Everyone living in the United States—regardless of immigration status—has basic rights under the U.S. Constitution. It’s important to know your rights and how to respond if you or someone you know encounters federal immigration enforcement.

If you’re approached by law enforcement or federal immigration officers, remember:⁠

  • You have the right to remain silent.⁠
  • You have the right to speak to a lawyer before answering questions or signing anything.⁠
  • You should carry valid immigration documents. Never carry false documents.⁠
  • Officers cannot enter your home without permission unless they have a warrant signed by a judge. A Department of Homeland Security form alone is not enough.⁠

This resource has been adapted from information provided by Congresswoman Linda T. Sánchez. Click here to view the full list of rights and additional information. 

Searching for a loved one who may be in ICE custody? Visit locator.ice.gov⁠

Local Assistance for Affected Families

Thanks to funding approved by the Whittier City Council, the following organizations are offering targeted support for residents affected by recent federal immigration raids:

Hispanic Outreach Taskforce (H.O.T.)

H.O.T. will be providing direct assistance to families whose primary earners have been detained or are unable to work due to federal immigration enforcement. Services include:

  • Help with utility and household bills
  • Support with rent or emergency expenses
  • Referrals to additional wraparound services

7056 Washington Avenue
Whittier, CA 90602
(562) 789-0550
info@hotoutreach.org

 

Interfaith Food Center (I.F.C.)

I.F.C. is assisting families impacted by loss of income or mobility due to federal immigration enforcement by offering:

  • Free grocery distribution for households in need
  • Emergency food boxes for homebound individuals
  • Ongoing food pantry support

11819 Burke Street
Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670
(562) 903-1478

Additional Resources

Community Legal Aid SoCal

LAC4you - LA County Office of Immigrant Affairs

Stay Informed

This page will be updated regularly with additional resources as they become available. We encourage residents to check back often and follow the City’s social media for regular announcements.