Donations to support Minneapolis immigrants have dropped significantly since the end of Operation Metro Surge in February, leaving many without access to basic necessities like food and rent. The operation, which involved thousands of federal immigration agents, resulted in the arrest of over 3,000 immigrants and had a devastating impact on the community.
The mutual aid group Juntos Podemos has seen a sharp decline in donations, with volunteers struggling to meet the ongoing needs of immigrant families. Anaí Tepozteco, a co-founder of the group, emphasized the importance of continued support, saying “we want to keep assisting families with groceries but also families who are behind with rent.”
Immigration Support
Many immigrants who spoke to reporters expressed concern about their economic stability, with some having stopped working during Operation Metro Surge and still trying to recover. Paola, an undocumented immigrant from Ecuador, said she was worried about paying rent and bills without a steady income. The number of eviction filings in Minneapolis has spiked 26% in April compared to the same period last year, according to HOME Line, a nonprofit tenant advocacy organization.
The decline in donations has also affected local rent relief efforts, with one neighborhood’s initiative receiving only $8 in overnight donations. Sulia Altenberg, who co-founded the effort, said they were able to help over 230 households pay their rent in February and March but are now struggling to continue their work. A recent donation of $300,000 from two local foundations will help pay rent for over 60 households, but Altenberg worries about the long-term sustainability of their efforts.
Community Response
The decrease in donations and volunteers has left many in the community wondering what will happen next. Tepozteco’s group raised $15,000 at a recent fundraiser, but it was short of their $20,000 goal. As the community continues to grapple with the aftermath of Operation Metro Surge, it is clear that the need for support remains. The decline in donations highlights the challenges faced by immigrant communities in the US and the importance of sustained support.
The situation in Minneapolis serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by immigrant communities across the US, where access to basic necessities like food and housing can be a daily challenge. As the city moves forward, it is essential to recognize the importance of continued support for these communities and to work towards creating a more stable and secure environment for all.
