El Paso Migrants Unable to Shelter Warmed by Local Community

On Christmas eve, Immprof blogger KJ posted that a busload of immigrants were dropped in front of Vice President Harris’ DC residence. But for the grace of a local church, they would have been left in freezing temperatures.

A similar story is taking place in El Paso, Texas, where migrants crossing into the borderlands are relying on churches and sanctuary networks to stay sheltered from the cold. With the official shelter at the city’s convention center requiring immigration documentation, those who enter without inspection have fewer options and risk being sent back to their home countries if they try. Churches are filling the gap with food, clothes, and toys for migrants without regard to their immigration status. NPR reports:

Many migrants had hoped for what they say would have been the best Christmas gift of all – the lifting of pandemic border restrictions that have blocked them from seeking asylum in the U.S. That has not happened. Still, they’re grateful for the kindness of strangers this holiday season.

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MHC