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PHOENIX, ARIZONA - Borderlands Resource Initiative (BRI) proudly announces its participation in the FY2025 Immigration Appropriations Project, a collaborative effort led by the American Immigration Council (AIC) and the National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC). As an advocate for justice and dignity for asylum seekers, BRI is honored to join forces with AIC, NIJC, the American Civil Liberties Union, Refugees International, Haitian Bridge Alliance, and other esteemed immigration organizations in developing appropriations proposals that prioritize the needs of those seeking refuge in our communities.
The FY2025 Immigration Appropriations Project brought together a diverse coalition of organizations dedicated to championing humane immigration policies and strengthening support for refugees and asylum seekers. Through targeted working groups, the AIC/NIJC led coalition have developed more than 75 comprehensive proposals aimed at enhancing resources and services for immigrants, and ensuring their rights and dignity are upheld throughout the immigration process.
Key initiatives included in the appropriations proposals developed by BRI and its collaborators focus on:
Increasing funding, efficacy, and reporting for the Shelter and Services Program (SSP), currently the only federal funding for humane reception and shelter services for asylum seekers.
Redefining existing DHS transportation funding to cover the safe transport of individuals released from custody to NGOs providing respite and shelter services within the SSP.
Expanding funding for the Case Management Pilot Program (CMPP) and ensuring access for individuals placed in expedited removal or Alternative-to-Detention (ATD) programs.
Repurposing the existing Immigration Emergency Fund into the Destination Reception Fund, and making those funds available for non-custodial housing, medical care, childcare, and other social services to assist asylum seekers with self-sufficiency as they settle in their new homes.
"Working with our national partners on the Immigration Appropriations Project was an amazing experience," said Beth Strano, Executive Director at BRI. "The depth and thoughtfulness of the proposals not only underscore the unwavering commitment of the pro-immigration community, but also demonstrate our collective strength and resilience."
In the coming weeks, BRI and its national partners will share the final versions of the appropriations proposals with Congressional leaders and key staffers, advocating for their support and inclusion in the FY2025 budget, but also refreshing their priorities as the House and Senate continue to engage in the delayed FY2024 appropriations process. By engaging with policymakers at the highest levels, BRI seeks to ensure that the voices and needs of asylum seekers are heard and addressed in the allocation of federal resources.
"We urge Congress to prioritize funding for asylum support and services now more than ever," added Strano. "Border communities demonstrate every day that it is possible to uphold our national commitment to providing refuge and protection to those fleeing persecution and violence. This is not the time to cut the resources to those communities providing humane reception, and our obligation is to recognize that their tireless efforts are not only essential, but the solution to a politically manufactured crisis."
For media inquiries or interview requests regarding the FY2025 Immigration Appropriations Project, please contact:
Jesse Franzblau
National Immigrant Justice Center
Adriel Orozco
American Immigration Council
For more information about Borderlands Resource Initiative and their work, please visit www.borderlandsinitiative.org
For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact:
Beth Strano
Executive Director
Borderlands Resource Initiative
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