Carlos A. Gimenez
04/06/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/06/2026 21:07
REPS GIMENEZ & SALAZAR URGE ORR TO RECONSIDER FUNDING FOR CATHOLIC CHARITIES’ UNACCOMPANIED CHILDREN PROGRAM
MIAMI, FL- Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (FL-28) and Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar (FL-27) sent a sent a letter to the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) calling on the agency to immediately reverse its decision to strip funding from the Archdiocese of Miami's Residential Services for Unaccompanied Children, citing the critical role Catholic Charities plays in South Florida's humanitarian infrastructure.
"South Florida is on the frontlines of humanitarian migration in our hemisphere, and now is not the time to weaken the very programs that have protected vulnerable children for decades," said Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez. "With crises intensifying in Cuba and Haiti, we know what comes next-an increase in unaccompanied minors seeking safety in our community. Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Miami has the experience, infrastructure, and compassion to respond effectively. Cutting the Residential Services for Unaccompanied Children program is a strategic mistake that will cost more, delay response times, and put children at greater risk."
"South Florida has always been the first to respond when crisis hits our hemisphere," said Congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar. "From Operation Pedro Pan to past surges of unaccompanied minors at our border, Catholic Charities's Children's Village has been a pillar of compassion and expertise. Preserving this capacity is essential so we are prepared to respond effectively if the next crisis arises."
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