San Mateo County leaders reaffirm support for immigrant residents, vow continued protection and services for all residents
San Mateo County, California – San Mateo County officials have reiterated again that they support immigrant residents, even as many in the community are getting more concerned. At a recent press event in downtown Redwood City, supervisors Noelia Corzo and Ray Mueller joined local religion and community groups to reassure people that the County continues to be committed to protecting everyone who lives there, no matter what their immigration status is.
Corzo encouraged residents to stay calm and only trust information that had been checked out. She advised anyone who saw immigration enforcement activities to call the County’s Rapid Response Hotline at (203) 666-4472, which is also known as (203) NO-MIGRA.
“We are working on strengthening our response as quickly as possible and will keep you informed as information comes in,” Corzo said at a news conference at County Center in downtown Redwood City. “I am personally committed to doing what is necessary to support our neighbors who are making difficult and painful decisions about work, school and everyday activities.”
Mueller echoed her message, emphasizing that county services remain fully operational and accessible to everyone.
“We understand that concern and confusion are running high right now. Our commitment to the well-being and dignity of our community remains steadfast. The County remains fully equipped and operating as usual and our departments and partners continue to provide essential services and resources,” Mueller said.
County authorities said that the Human Services Agency and San Mateo Medical Center are still providing important help, such as health insurance, food assistance, and safety-net services. The Immigrant Services branch of the Office of Community Affairs is also reaching out more by offering legal referrals, information in multiple languages, and “Know Your Rights” events. The goal of these activities is to help families understand their rights and get in touch with groups they can trust.
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The reaffirmation comes after the Board of Supervisors passed an ordinance in 2023 that says County resources, such staff time, facilities, or finances, can’t be used to help federal immigration enforcement unless the law says they have to. The policy was made to foster confidence and make sure that immigrants living in the County can use County programs without being afraid.
Corzo closed the event with a call for unity.
“I want to remind those of us with the privilege of citizenship that we have a special responsibility to stand up for our neighbors who are at risk,” she said. “Peaceful protest is a cornerstone of our democracy. This moment is calling on each of us to remain united and calm as we participate in our democracy.”
