D.C. officials have initiated the gradual reduction of migrant services in the city, following the cessation of bus transportation from Texas and Arizona to D.C. five months ago.
The city was becoming overwhelmed at one point.
In protest of President Joe Biden’s immigration policies, the governors of Texas and Arizona sent over 13,000 migrants to the District. Starting in April 2022, these migrants were transported by buses, with some even being dropped off in front of the vice president’s home.
Andrea Sanchez, along with her husband and two children, was one of the migrants who ultimately made their way to the District. They spent a total of 10 months living in the Days Inn before eventually moving to Maryland last year.
“It’s quite challenging to be an immigrant in this country,” mentioned Sanchez, a Venezuelan who relocated to D.C. “However, I must admit that my experience has been quite positive thus far. I don’t have any negative remarks or complaints to make.”
She added that D.C. has been a great support for us and personally, it has been beneficial.
According to district officials, the city has spent approximately $59 million since 2022 to accommodate and provide meals for migrants staying in the three hotels, with stays lasting up to a year.
The closure of the Days Inn for migrants indicates that the administration of Mayor Muriel Bowser is gradually discontinuing services for them. According to officials, they have stopped accepting new migrants to reside in the hotels that are being supported by District funds.
“We believed it held significant importance, so we took the initiative to assist them,” expressed Phil Mendelson, Chairman of the City Council.
However, Mendelson noted that the endeavor has proven to be quite expensive for the taxpayers of the District.
He estimated that the city receives approximately $8 to $10 million per month. However, he also acknowledged the importance of treating these individuals as human beings and creating a welcoming environment for them.
Sanchez expressed how her time in the District has been instrumental in her adjustment to life in America.
“They provided me with the necessary resources to enroll my children in school,” she expressed. “Furthermore, they extended their support to us by ensuring we had access to food.”
Sanchez expressed concern that due to the diminishing services, certain migrants may feel apprehensive about coming.
She said that individuals are not likely to consider going to a place where they won’t be provided with assistance.
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