WASHINGTON, DC, May 13, 2022 — Children and families on the U.S.-Mexico border continue to face uncertainty as they wait for their asylum claims to be processed.
Today, thousands of migrants are on the Mexican side of the border, where the Mexican Red Cross is providing aid and helping them speak with their loved ones back home. Many asylum seekers have also been recently admitted to the U.S., where local organizations are working to safely house them as their cases make their way through the courts, which can be a lengthy process. It's important to note that those at risk of being persecuted in their own country have the right to seek asylum under international law.
Supporting Nonprofits at the U.S.-Mexico Border
The American Red Cross has provided relief supplies — such as cots, blankets, hygiene items, first aid kits and towels — for use by local nonprofits caring for migrants in Arizona, California, New Mexico and Texas. The Red Cross has also provided phones to organizations working in the region, which migrants can use to reconnect with family members back home to let them know they’re safe.
Humanitarian Commitment to Helping All People in Need
Red Cross and Red Crescent teams have long delivered humanitarian relief to refugees, migrants and asylum seekers around the world. The Red Cross is committed to delivering help to anyone in distress — regardless of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation or citizenship status — and to always remain a neutral and impartial party, so we can reach and help people when and where it is needed most.
The American Red Cross is guided by seven Fundamental Principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality. As a humanitarian organization, these principles guide our actions every day, and compel us to alleviate human suffering in the U.S. and around the world.
For a more robust picture of how the American Red Cross aids refugees, migrants and asylum seekers, please visit: https://www.redcross.org/about-us/news-and-events/news/how-does-the-american-red-cross-help-migrants.html.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.