Statement from Community Bridges on the Results of the Nov. 5, 2024 Election

As the dust settles from the recent elections, we want to assure you of our unwavering commitment to supporting and advocating for every member of our community, regardless of immigration status. At Community Bridges, we have always worked to build bridges of hope, light, and opportunity, providing essential resources and support to our most vulnerable populations. We stand firm in this commitment now and into the future. 

In collaboration with local law enforcement, nonprofits, health organizations, safety experts, and government leaders, Community Bridges has signed a letter of solidarity to support our immigrant community in this uncertain time. Together, we affirm: 

“As leaders in local government, we unequivocally reaffirm our commitment to supporting all immigrants in our community. A relationship of trust between immigrants and local agencies, including law enforcement, first responders, schools, and hospitals, is essential to assuring that all residents feel safe and healthy and have access to the resources necessary to help make our community a better place for all.” 

Our shared commitment extends to upholding protective measures, such as the California Values Act (SB 54), the TRUTH Act (AB 2792), and local sanctuary resolutions, to ensure a safe and supportive environment for everyone. 

While there has been much rhetoric and some indication of potential policies that could impact our community, we are uncertain of what is to come. As we await specifics from the incoming administration, please know that we are vigilant and prepared to inform you about any developments that may affect our community and the 20,000 individuals we serve each year. Rest assured, we are committed to responding proactively to any community issues that arise and may impact us locally.  

We remember the climate of 2016, when many low-income and Latine families faced immense fear. This fear led to a concerning trend of community service disenrollment across all sectors, as families worried about potential immigration consequences simply for seeking help. The impact was profound, driving many into deeper poverty, with negative effects on their health and education, leading to certain generational impacts that we continue to address. 

Today, we are preparing our community with important educational information, particularly on public charge and other immigration rules as well as Childcare Safety Planning, so families are better prepared in case they are put in a situation in which they must make a difficult decision. 

While many challenges are uncertain, our commitment to responding is not. 

We’ve faced difficult times before and pulled through by supporting each other. No matter what comes our way, we remain steadfast in our mission: to deliver essential services, ensure equitable access to resources, and advocate for health and dignity at every stage of life. With your help, we’ll continue to serve, advocate, and empower those who need it most. Let’s work together to make Santa Cruz County and the greater Central Coast a community where everyone feels valued, safe, and supported. 

Together, we’re building the world we want to live in—because together, anything is possible.  

Sincerely,

Raymon Cancino, Chief Executive Officer