Frequently asked questions
Plain answers. If yours is not here, ask us.
Is the help really free?
Yes. Every Foundation program is free. We will never ask you to pay a fee to receive help, and anyone who does so in our name is an impostor — report them to help@tas-foundation.org.
Do I need to be a member of Together and Stronger?
No. The Foundation serves anyone with a foreign-born story, member or not. Members and non-members receive the same help.
Will you ask about my immigration status?
No. We never ask for, store or share immigration status. We ask only for your name, how to reach you, and what you need.
Can you give me money directly?
Hardship Relief provides direct help when funds are available, after a quick assessment, usually paid to the landlord, utility, pharmacy or funeral home that needs paying. For larger or ongoing needs we connect you to vetted partners and public programs and help you apply.
Do you provide legal or immigration services?
No. We are not a law firm and we do not provide legal or immigration advice. The Fair Work Initiative and our other programs prepare you and connect you to qualified attorneys, clinics and agencies, most of them free or low-cost.
Can you help with my immigration case?
We do not handle immigration cases and we never promise immigration outcomes. We can connect you to trusted, accredited immigration legal-aid organisations and warn you about the notario and fake-lawyer scams that target people with a foreign-born story.
What languages do you work in?
English, Spanish and French today, with more languages coming as the network grows. Interpreters help us serve other languages case by case.
How fast will I hear back?
Our target is a first response within two business days. Emergencies — a death, a shut-off, a court date, no food tonight, an active scam — are flagged and handled first, usually the same day.
I am not in California. Can you help?
Yes, by connecting you to the right local programs and partners. Some programs (the Hardship Fund, workshops, accompaniment) are concentrated where the family is based, and we tell you honestly what we can do where you are.
How is the Foundation funded?
Through donations, grants and the support of the Together and Stronger family. Gifts fund relief and programs, and we keep overhead low. See the Give page for where gifts go.
Is my information safe?
Yes. Requests go through secured forms, are read only by the Foundation team, and are never sold or shared for marketing or with immigration authorities. See Privacy & confidentiality.
How do I know a message is really from you?
It comes from tas-foundation.org, togetherandstronger.org or tasservicesinc.org, or from the phone number (213) 557-4575, and it never asks for a fee, a gift card, a transfer, your status or your bank login. When in doubt, forward it to help@tas-foundation.org and we will confirm.
Can an association ask for help on behalf of a member?
Yes. Association leaders and liaisons regularly bring requests to us; we then work with the member directly.
Can I volunteer if I am not a member?
Yes. Active volunteers receive membership in Together and Stronger, but it is not a condition.
What is the Mutual Aid Compact?
Together and Stronger's associations stand together when a member dies without insurance and funds are needed for burial or repatriation. The Foundation coordinates with the Compact and the family's association. Learn more.
What does TAS stand for?
Together and Stronger. The three organizations — Together and Stronger, TAS Member Services and Together and Stronger Foundation — are one family.
Need help today?
Free, confidential, in your language. Or fund the next family's relief.