The Biden administration is providing $380 million to nonprofits and local governments to cover costs associated with caring for migrants released by the Department of Homeland Security at the southern border. This funding comes from DHS’s Shelter and Services Program, which offers support such as food, shelter, clothing, medical care, and transportation to migrants awaiting immigration court proceedings. The goal is to prevent overcrowding at CBP facilities and offset costs incurred by non-federal entities dealing with migrant arrivals in their communities. The total amount awarded this year is nearly $640 million.
In fiscal year 2023, over $780 million was given to organizations and cities dealing with an influx of migrants who lack housing and economic opportunities. The $380 million grant is divided among 50 nonprofits, municipalities, and government entities. New York City, Los Angeles, and Arizona are some of the biggest beneficiaries. Organizations such as Jewish Family Service San Diego and Catholic Charities are also receiving significant funding. The money will help manage shelter costs and support activities related to caring for migrants.
DHS reports that Border Patrol encounters in July decreased by 32% compared to June, reaching the lowest monthly total on the southwest border since September 2020. This decline follows a Presidential Proclamation by President Biden, which suspended the entry of certain noncitizens at the southern border when daily encounters exceed 2,500 over seven days. Despite this funding, cities like Massachusetts and New York are facing significant costs related to the migrant crisis. Republicans in Massachusetts are calling for a detailed cost breakdown of the state’s secret spending on the issue.
In New York, the comptroller estimates that the migrant crisis will cost state taxpayers $4.3 billion through 2025, with New York City taxpayers facing $3 billion in expenses in fiscal year 2024. The funding also does not include the $4 billion sent to Central America by the Biden administration to address the root causes of illegal immigration. A study by the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) estimated that the net cost of illegal immigration for the United States was at least $150.7 billion, taking into account tax revenue paid by illegal immigrants and the overall economic impact.
Overall, the funding provided by DHS aims to alleviate some of the financial burden on cities and organizations dealing with the migrant crisis at the southern border. While Border Patrol encounters have decreased in recent months, the costs associated with providing services to migrants remain high. States like Massachusetts and New York are facing significant expenses, and Republicans are calling for more transparency regarding the impact of the crisis on local taxpayers. Despite efforts to address root causes and reduce illegal crossings, more work is needed to effectively manage the situation at the border.
