The Trump Administration’s ongoing ICE raids and media campaigns warning undocumented immigrants to flee the country are crafted to foment fear, and for people experiencing homelessness who may also not have documents, that fear is so strong, it’s forcing them out of shelters, onto the streets and into illegal encampments. For the first time in GRIP’s history, the family shelter residents are predominantly white.
(Photo shows image from ICE ad warning undocumented people to leave America or face arrest).
“While demand remains high and our beds are consistently at capacity, we’re observing an increase in non-Hispanic Caucasians utilizing both the family shelter and the single adult warming center. At the same time, there appears to be a visible growth in Latinx presence within local Richmond encampments—both in terms of number and size—suggesting that many in this population may be opting to remain unsheltered. said Executive Director Ralph Payton.
In May, two people were taken by ICE outside a homeless shelter in LA.
“Anecdotally, it seems that fear of ICE or other federal enforcement may be discouraging some Latinx individuals and families from engaging with established nonprofit services, including GRIP. This is particularly concerning, given GRIP’s mission. If individuals are hesitant to access these critical services out of fear, the cycle of homelessness and poverty will only deepen,” Payton added.
GRIP’s weekly outreach meal runs are running out of food more quickly than in previous years, and are not coming close to meeting the needs of those living in encampments.
Besides not having enough food, individuals intentionally staying away from formal services miss out on vital resources — including immigration support — that could lead to stability and safety.
That’s especially concerning for the children.
“As a family shelter, we’re particularly mindful of the risks this poses to children and parents who may be living in unsafe or unstable conditions simply because they’re afraid to walk through our doors,” Payton said.
As a reminder to anyone in fear of ICE:
- You have the right to remain silent
- You have the right to an attorney
- You have the right to an interpreter for the language you speak best
- Be respectful of officers.
- Do not touch them or run
- If ICE wants to search your pockets or belongings, say, “I do not consent to a search.”
