In a powerful display of regional solidarity, Bay Area leaders have launched the “Stand Together Bay Area Fund” to support immigrant families facing unprecedented challenges from federal immigration enforcement.

Mayors and officials from across San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose have come together to create a critical financial resource targeting communities most vulnerable to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. The fund aims to raise $10 million to provide emergency aid for families impacted by raids, detentions, and potential deportations.

San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie emphasized the community’s commitment, stating the fund will help “keep a roof over people’s heads” and “put food on the table” for those being targeted. The initiative responds to growing fears within immigrant communities, where residents are increasingly afraid to attend work, school, or even run basic errands due to potential immigration enforcement.

The San Francisco Foundation is managing the fund, which will collect private donations from corporations, individuals, faith groups, and philanthropists. These resources will directly support nonprofit organizations working to assist immigrant communities with critical expenses like rent and food.

The regional response comes at a critical time, with one-third of Bay Area residents being foreign-born and approximately 6.5% of the population documented as undocumented immigrants. Despite several local sanctuary jurisdiction ordinances, ICE continues to conduct detentions independently of local law enforcement.

San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan highlighted the profound psychological impact, sharing stories of parents afraid to walk children to school and residents fearful of being targeted regardless of their legal status. Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee reinforced the message of unity, promising to “answer fear with solidarity” and provide tangible support.

This collaborative effort represents more than financial assistance, it’s a statement of collective values and community resilience in the face of federal immigration policies that many view as discriminatory and harmful.

As the fund grows, it serves as a beacon of hope and practical support for Bay Area immigrant families navigating increasingly complex and uncertain legal landscapes.