A Russian and a Ukrainian embrace each other as Russians wait for humanitarian visas, amid the ongoing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, at the San Ysidro Port of Entry of the U.S.-Mexico border in Tijuana, Mexico, March 18, 2022. REUTERS/Jorge Duenes TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY
Board of Supervisors Chair Nathan Fletcher said Thursday that San Diego County will join other major metropolitan areas in welcoming those seeking asylum from Ukraine.
Fletcher’s comments followed President Joe Biden’s announcement Thursday that the U.S. will accept up to 100,000 refugees from the war-torn country.
In a statement, Fletcher said the county will provide services to those fleeing Ukraine due to Russia’s invasion. The county already provides assistance to asylum seekers from Afghanistan and Ukraine who crossed from Mexico into the U.S.
“Our county has time and again stepped up to help refugees and this time is no different,” said Fletcher. “Together with Los Angeles and Sacramento, we are the largest metropolitan regions in California expected to accept these refugees. Recognizing that the county may start receiving refugees from Ukraine, I want to be clear that we stand ready to continue to work with our Resettlement Agency partners to welcome them into our communities.”
Fletcher’s office said services available to refugees may include reception and placement, health screenings, public benefits such as CalWORKs, CalFresh and cash assistance, along with employment aid and help with English-as-a-second language.
– City News Service