Latino families in Riverside County are dealing with the mental health impacts of stepped-up immigration enforcement, advocates say. Community organizations are working to build safe spaces where residents can share their experiences, learn about their rights and connect with resources.
In Perris, the TODEC Legal Center works with Latino and immigrant residents who want to seek legal advice, housing assistance and food. At a recent workshop, business owners gathered to learn what to do if they encounter federal immigration agents.
Luz Gallegos, TODEC’s executive director, said the group tries to prepare families for difficult encounters. During the workshop, she tells attendees in Spanish to, “expect the worst because the government is taking money away from other places like social services and education and putting it into immigration enforcement.”…