El Paso’s humanitarian organizations need help as they aid migrants who are passing through El Paso, and with border crossings expected to rise next week when public health policy Title 42 lifts, community leaders are predicting a situation that will require all hands on deck.
One of the biggest unauthorized border crossings in El Paso history occurred this past weekend when thousands of migrants waded across the Rio Grande from Ciudad Juárez. For most migrants – who hail mainly from Nicaragua, Cuba, Ecuador and the Dominican Republic – El Paso is a temporary stay until they can depart for their intended destination. People continued to cross the border throughout the week, but since shelters are at capacity, federal agents are releasing migrants into the streets, including nearly 200 people today, according to a city dashboard.
Temperatures are expected to drop below freezing tonight. An encampment has formed outside the Greyhound bus station, where individuals are bringing water, food, blankets and other supplies, including a mattress. After reports of limited access to public restrooms, the city set up several portable toilets in a nearby parking lot.
On Wednesday, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott asked the state’s attorney general to investigate nongovernmental organizations which he claims are helping migrants illegally cross the border near El Paso. In his letter, Abbott did not provide any evidence supporting his allegations and local nonprofits accused the governor of trying to criminalize groups for providing humanitarian aid to migrants.
Despite the governor’s language, NGOs in El Paso are calling on people to support their work. Here are ways you can help:
Annunciation House
This volunteer-led organization provides shelter and support to migrants and refugees. The organization takes monetary donations and is in need of volunteers in particular. Short-term volunteers must commit to a minimum of two weeks of service.
Donate or apply to volunteer online.
Border Refugee Assistance Fund
The Catholic Diocese of El Paso and the Hope Border Institute, a faith-based organization, started aGoFundMe to raise money for migrant shelters. The Diocese runs five migrant shelters which are in need of volunteers.
Donate online or contact the diocese to volunteer.
El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank
El Paso’s food bank needs volunteers to help assemble meals for migrants. The nonprofit is putting together breakfast bags, sandwiches and other food to distribute in Downtown El Paso and other locations. Volunteers will also be assembling kits with items such as baby wipes, diapers and formula.
Most volunteer work will take place at the El Pasoans Fighting Hunger warehouse in the Lower Valley at 9541 Plaza Circle. Other volunteer work will take place in the streets to distribute necessities. The American Red Cross is working with the food bank to supply cots, blankets and hygiene products.
Sign up for a 4-hour shift online and check back often for more shifts to open up. Those who can’t donate time can donate money.
Opportunity Center for the Homeless
This nonprofit organization serves people who are experiencing homelessness in El Paso, including migrants. The organization set up an Amazon Wish List of most needed items. People can also drop off toiletries, gently used clothes and food at 1208 Myrtle Ave. Unused shoes of all sizes, colors, and for any gender are in high demand.
Learn more online about what to donate.
Rescue Mission of El Paso
This faith-based charity and homeless shelter has an average of 200 visitors a day and 185 residents, according to its website. Donations needed most for residents at 221 North Lee St. include bath towels, laundry detergent, twin sheets, blankets, deodorant and Tylenol or ibuprofen for adults and children. Donations needed most for visitors at 130 N. Cotton St. include bar soap, body lotion, blankets, backpacks and towels.
For questions about donating clothes, unused toiletries and food, visit the Rescue Mission’s website.
Disclosure: El Paso Matters CEO Robert Moore is a board member for El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank. Moore was not involved in the reporting or editing of this story.
