The Trump administration has ended its long-term agreement with Catholic Charities of Miami, which had been a significant source of support for immigrant children. The administration cited a decline in illegal immigration as a reason for this decision, coinciding with ongoing tensions between the president and the Pope.
On Wednesday, Archbishop Thomas Wenski of Miami expressed his disappointment in an op-ed for The Miami Herald, highlighting the loss of an $11 million contract that had been in place for over six decades. He noted that without these funds, the organization would struggle to continue operating for the remainder of the year.
“For more than 60 years, the Archdiocese of Miami’s services to unaccompanied minors have been recognized for excellence and have served as a model for other institutions across the nation,” Wenski wrote, emphasizing their unmatched experience in helping this vulnerable group. He warned that without the funding, their services would be forced to close within three months.
According to the Miami Herald, the administration had informed Catholic Charities last month about the funding cut, ahead of President Trump’s public comments criticizing Pope Leo XIV for not supporting U.S. military actions in Iran.
Emily G. Hillard, a spokesperson for the Department of Health and Human Services, explained that the decision was based on a “significant decrease” in unaccompanied minors crossing the border compared to when President Biden was in office.
“We are closing and consolidating unused facilities as the Trump Administration continues its efforts to stop illegal entry and the smuggling and trafficking of unaccompanied children,” Hillard stated.
White House Deputy Press Secretary Khush Desai commented, labeling reports about the funding cuts as “fake news” and indicated that last year, the administration had informed 49 charities about funding reductions, of which only two were Catholic organizations.
Desai elaborated, saying, “A historically secure border means fewer border crossings. This is good taxpayer stewardship made possible by common-sense border policies that keep Americans safe and protect our sovereignty.”
In his opinion piece, Wenski countered the argument that a decline in unaccompanied minors justified the funding removal. He acknowledged the decrease but questioned why the government would shut down a program of high competency and excellence like Catholic Charities, given its longstanding reputation for caring for children during challenging times.
The Archdiocese of Miami referenced Wenski’s op-ed when approached for further comments. It’s a complex situation, and there seems to be no easy resolution in sight.
