Friday, Aug 14, 2015
 by 
Warren Slocum
  • Between 2000 and 2010, San Mateo County's immigrant population increased more than any other county in California- from 25.5 to 33.3 percent- and this trend continues. In 2010, San Mateo County ranked 4th among counties in California and 8th across the nation in the concentration of foreign-born residents.

    We are fortunate to live in such a culturally diverse area. However, not all of our immigrants understand the law, speak the language, and know their rights or where to turn for help, if needed.

    At my request, and with the full support of my colleagues on the Board of Supervisors, San Mateo County will open its first Office of Immigrant Affairs this September. I'm proud that our County has taken this important step forward to address the varied needs of our immigrant population.

    To launch the Office, I convened a group of nonprofits, foundations, faith-based organizations, and county staff to talk about our hopes and dreams for the office, establish priorities for the first year, and review the coordinator position description. I look forward to working with the Office of Immigrant Affairs to bridge our connection to the immigrant residents of District Four and San Mateo County.