PIRU : Aid Available for Jobless Workers

Piru residents who are out of work because of crop-killing frosts last December may apply for financial help at a meeting scheduled for 7 p.m. tonight at a local market.

Phillip Navarro of the Ventura County Commission on Human Concerns will explain the farm-worker relief program at an outdoor session next to Elva’s Center Market, 3969 E. Center St.

Navarro said the federally funded program helps workers who have been unemployed since the freeze and are unable to pay rent or buy food.

“It’s a one-time thing that is meant to tide them over a little longer,” he said.

U.S. citizens, workers with legal resident status or those who have applied for the illegal-immigrant amnesty program are eligible for up to $400 for rent, $20 for food and $110 for medical needs.

Navarro said workers receive vouchers to redeem with landlords, doctors and stores cooperating with the program. People who are paid with the vouchers then bill the commission. “There is no cash involved,” he said.

Navarro said that after tonight’s meeting he will make appointments to visit homes later this week. About an hour is required to complete paperwork for each applicant, and Navarro said he would return to Piru as often as necessary to reach those eligible for the program.

Applicants must be able to produce a notice of eviction, the name of the person to whom they pay rent or proof that they receive utility bills at their address, Navarro said.