COVID19 has had an effect across the U.S. but for Latinos, the pandemic has worsened health, social, educational, and income inequities, raising fears of disparities in disease rates, exposure, testing, prevention and survival. In addition to the lack of accountability from government agencies and its inequitable procedures and policies the majority of Latinos do not have these same privileges as everyone. If truth be told Latino families have to choose between staying home or going to work and getting sick. 

It is clear that this pandemic has taken a toll on communities of color, especially undocumented Latino immigrants. A big portion of Latinos are part of the essential working industries therefore contracting COVID19 at a higher rate. In Washington state like many others community organizers have done everything within their power to advocate and support their communities. Along the way, nonprofit organizations have also shifted their focuses, turn on the survival light on and are serving as a voice for those in crisis. 

Since the start of the pandemic, Centro Latino has expanded its services beyond the Pierce, King, and Thurston Counties. Due to the systems overlap in government and misrepresentation, Latino communities across Washington have experience COVID19 differently. For example, Benton-Franklin; an area that has a high concentration of undocumented agricultural workers have been the most affected. During the time of the stimulus checks they were completely banned from obtaining any financial aid even if they married with a permanent resident, citizen or had citizen children. Along with this many immigrant families do not trust healthcare providers as many of them are not culturally responsive to their needs and experiences. 

As a response, Centro Latino has delivered to farmworkers in the Benton-Franklin county and Yakima over 5,000 reusable facemasks, 8,000 one use facemasks, 200 emergency supplies such as hand sanitizer and food baskets. Furthermore, Centro Latino has continued to provide support and advocacy to over _____ domestic violence victims and provided food baskets to over 14,000 individuals. 

At this moment, Centro Latino has created a working and trusted partnership with the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department (TPCHD) as well at the Pierce County. In collaboration with the TPCHD, Centro Latino is currently providing support services to individuals during their isolation and quarantine periods. In addition to this Centro Latino is also one of the many agencies providing rental assistance through the Pierce County housing program.