Reps. Panetta, Lofgren Announce $300K in Federal Funds for Citizenship Services in Santa Cruz County

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) and Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) announced that the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will distribute $300,000 to the Community Action Board of Santa Cruz County to expand their citizenship preparation and assistance services.

“Green Card holders who work hard, follow the rules, and play a part in our communities, deserve the support necessary to become citizens so that they can continue to contribute to their families and our country,” said Rep. Panetta. “This federal grant will increase and enhance programs to help those preparing to become citizens of our nation.  As we continue our work to reform the immigration system and secure our border, federal funding like this invests not just in the futures of those willing to come and contribute to our communities, but also in the future of the United States."

“The citizenship process in America needs tremendous reforms and, at the very least, needs to be more accessible to residents. A lack of resources, including those tailored to immigrant populations, must not be a barrier. Our country is made greater by our diversity, and I’m glad to see federal funding that will support people who are motivated and excited to become American citizens,” said Rep. Lofgren, a senior member of the House Immigration Subcommittee.

This funding is part of the Citizenship and Integration Grants Program, which supports organizations that help prepare lawful permanent residents for naturalization. 

The USCIS funding was provided by the FY23 consolidated appropriations package which Reps. Panetta and Lofgren voted in favor of.

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