Eagle Pass, Texas - In an ongoing border crisis, the small town of Eagle Pass is facing a severe financial burden due to the cost of providing emergency services to migrants crossing into their city. The expenses are estimated to be a staggering $21,000 per day, putting a significant strain on the town's resources. To shed light on the situation, D.H.A. Secretary May Orca personally visited Eagle Pass today.
The local fire department has been working tirelessly to rescue and resuscitate individuals, as the migration crisis takes a toll on the community. The fire chief revealed that their department, consisting of young personnel between the ages of 20 and 40, has had to bear witness to the tragic consequences of illegal migration. Over the past year, they have recovered nearly 50 bodies from the river, with 12 of them being minors ranging from six months to 15 years old.
The emotional impact of these experiences has been profound, affecting the mental and physical well-being of the fire department's members. The chief stated that some firefighters have called in sick, and there are indications that additional support may be needed to address the implications of the crisis on their mental health.
Despite the ongoing struggle, the fire department has remained committed to carrying out their duties, including responding to fires within Eagle Pass. However, diverting resources to address the migrant crisis has made their tasks more challenging. The chief highlighted the strain on the local hospital's emergency room, resulting from an overwhelming influx of minor injuries and illnesses among migrants.
Eagle Pass, a city dependent on commerce facilitated by legal cross-border activities, has also suffered economically. The recent closure of a local bridge due to a large gathering of around 4,000 to 5,000 migrants resulted in significant financial losses, amounting to more than half a million dollars for the city.
With over 3,000 rescues conducted during the fiscal year, the fire chief expressed the urgent need for comprehensive immigration reform. When given the opportunity to address those in power, his message would emphasize the devastating impact of the crisis on the city and the importance of effective solutions and preventive measures.
The visit of D.H.A. Secretary May Orca to Eagle Pass underscores the gravity of the situation and provides an opportunity for firsthand observation and assessment. As the dialogue around immigration reform continues at the national level, the hope remains that attention will be given to the stories and struggles of communities like Eagle Pass, where the cost of the crisis is measured not just in dollars but also in human lives and emotional well-being.
