New York City is set to close 12 migrant shelters by the end of the year, with two already shuttered and 10 more scheduled for closure. The closures come as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office, signaling a shift in immigration policies.
The shelters, located in various counties across the state, were initially opened due to a surge in migrants and asylum seekers arriving in the city. Mayor Eric Adams' office reported that over 223,000 individuals have been assisted since the spring of 2022, with the city incurring significant costs to provide housing and services.
The decision to close the shelters is attributed to a decline in migrant arrivals, with the city acknowledging federal support and policy changes under the Biden-Harris administration for the reduction in numbers. Despite a recent influx of asylum seekers, overall encounters at the border have decreased.
Mayor Adams emphasized the city's efforts to assist migrants in transitioning out of shelters and highlighted the cost-saving measures being implemented. The city aims to save taxpayers millions of dollars while ensuring continued support for migrant families, including allowing those issued eviction notices to remain in their current shelters if needed.
However, the city faced criticism from activists opposing the eviction rule for migrant adults, leading to a protest at City Hall. The activists argued that the policy was cruel and violated the city's right to shelter rule.
Concerns have been raised about a potential increase in border crossings before Trump's administration takes office, with plans to tighten border security and immigration policies. Trump's promises to seal the southern border and implement strict deportation measures have raised apprehensions among migrant communities.
As the city navigates the evolving landscape of immigration policies, the closure of migrant shelters reflects broader changes in the national approach to immigration under the incoming administration.
