Chicago November 24, 2024
New York City plans to close 12 migrant shelters by the end of this year, including two hotel shelters that have already stopped operating. This decision comes as Mayor Eric Adams announces that the city has helped over 223,000 migrants since spring 2022. Currently, 58,000 migrants are still in these shelters.
With about 210 shelters across the city, the costs are expected to be around $12 billion over the next three years unless changes are made. The decision to close shelters, including a large one on Randall’s Island by February 2025, is happening just as Donald Trump prepares to start his second term as President on January 20, 2025.
Trump has promised to tighten border security and increase deportations. Some experts worry that migrants might rush to enter the U.S. before these new policies begin. For example, about 1,500 migrants have gathered in southern Mexico, hoping to cross the border soon.
Mayor Adams praised his team for their hard work in managing the shelters and stressed that New York City welcomes immigrants. Meanwhile, protestors from Jews For Racial & Economic Justice displayed banners at City Hall demanding an end to shelter closures and calling for housing justice.
