The San Diego Union-Tribune: San Diego wins grant to welcome immigrants

San Diego received $25,000 to make a strategic plan for the city to welcome and integrate immigrants and refugees.

The San Diego Regional Economic Development Corp. and the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce will work with several local nonprofits to research needs in immigrant and refugee communities over the next six months or so, according to the mayor’s office. The goal is to have a multi-year strategy to bring immigrant integration efforts into local government.

“Immigrants and refugees contribute to San Diego’s culture and economy, and our region has taken in more refugees than any other in California,” Mayor Kevin Faulconer said. “This new program ensures we continue supporting those who come to our city to pursue a better life for themselves and their families.”

San Diego is one of 25 communities to receive a grant this year. Other grant recipients include Chicago, Portland and Long Beach.

“Key to attracting foreign investment and entrepreneurs is creating an immigrant friendly and welcoming community,” said Paola Avila, vice president of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce. “This initiative will bring together stakeholders to fully understand the needs of our communities and put together a strategy that better integrates immigrants into our innovation economy.”

Read the full story from The San Diego Union-Tribune: “San Diego wins grant to welcome immigrants”