Federal Funding Cut Jeopardizes Catholic Charities’ Migrant Children Program in Miami
The Trump administration has canceled an $11 million federal contract that funds care for unaccompanied migrant children in Miami. The move threatens a decades-old Catholic Charities program and could halt services within months.
Scope and timeline
The contract was with the Office of Refugee Resettlement, part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Church officials say the federal government notified them in late March that funding would end.
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Miami has served unaccompanied minors for more than 60 years. Leaders warn the program could close its doors within three months without replacement funding.
Local reaction
Father Federico Capdepon, who led Mass at Corpus Christi Church, told local media he feels saddened and frustrated. He described the abrupt cancellation of $11 million as unacceptable.
A parishioner, Jenniffer de Jesus Sanchez, also voiced concern. She said the cut is a moral failure because it harms vulnerable children.
Archbishop’s remarks and history
Archbishop Thomas Wenski emphasized the historic partnership between the federal government and Catholic Charities. In an opinion piece shared with a local newspaper, he cited Operation Pedro Pan as evidence of past success.
Wenski warned the funding decision could end a long-standing support system for young migrants. He said the Archdiocese’s track record in caring for this population is unmatched.
Consequences and next steps
Church leaders are convening a press conference to explore alternatives. They will discuss whether private funds or new contracts can replace federal support.
Staff and volunteers face uncertainty about continued housing and care for children. The loss of federal funding could force program closure as early as three months from notification.
- Amount canceled: $11 million.
- Agency involved: Office of Refugee Resettlement, HHS.
- Organization affected: Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Miami.
- Service: Housing and care for unaccompanied migrant children.
- Notification: Late March; potential shutdown within three months.
The federal funding cut puts a long-running Catholic Charities migrant children program in Miami at serious risk. Local leaders are pressing for solutions to keep services running.
