Migrant Shelters See Record-Low Numbers
Migrant shelters along the Texas-Mexico border, which once welcomed thousands of asylum seekers daily, are now nearly empty. The dramatic decrease follows strict border policies that began during former President Donald Trump’s term and continued into Joe Biden’s presidency.
The Catholic Charities Humanitarian Respite Center in McAllen, Texas, once bustling with activity, now hosts an average of fewer than 12 people daily. In January, the center welcomed over 3,000 migrants, but this February, the numbers are expected to drop below 350. This center, like others, serves as a temporary stop for migrants processed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Here, asylum seekers receive food, shelter, and essentials before moving to their final U.S. destinations.
Major Closures Across the Border Region
Other shelters are facing similar challenges. The Annunciation House network in El Paso, which used to operate over 20 facilities, now runs only four. Director Ruben Garcia expects to close even more shelters, leaving just one or two open.
Even during the Biden administration, migrant numbers at Annunciation House remained low, averaging only 250 to 300 people daily. The decline began last year when Mexico tightened its immigration policies, and the Biden administration issued orders restricting asylum applications for those entering outside official border crossings.
Shelters Forced to Shut Down Operations
El Paso’s Casa del Sagrado Corazon closed its doors in September 2024, and San Antonio’s Migrant Resource Center stopped accepting new arrivals last week due to low demand. The decrease in migrant numbers has also led to financial struggles. In McAllen, Sister Norma Pimentel, executive director of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley, noted that federal funding for their center was cut on January 30. This funding, previously provided through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Shelter and Services Program, helped cover operational costs.
The staff at the McAllen center had already been reduced before the funding cuts, as the number of arrivals dropped to as few as five or ten people daily. Despite these challenges, Sister Pimentel is determined to keep the center open. “We will continue to operate as long as there’s a need. If there are people we can help, the church will always be present to help,” she said.
Impact of Policy Changes
The sharp decline in migrant numbers is linked to strict policies like those implemented during Trump’s term and upheld under Biden’s presidency. These policies effectively closed the border to many asylum seekers, redirecting them to wait in Mexico or return to their home countries. Additionally, Mexico’s government has intensified immigration enforcement efforts, contributing to fewer crossings.
Uncertain Future for Migrant Aid Programs
As migrant shelters along the border struggle to remain operational, the future of these programs remains uncertain. Without federal funding and with migrant numbers continuing to decline, many shelters are forced to scale back or shut down entirely. Despite these difficulties, organizations like Catholic Charities remain committed to assisting those in need.
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