Catholic charities of the RGV's Humanitarian Respite Center supports migrants

As migrants enter the United States, many face challenges in continuing their journey. Sister Norma Pimentel, Director of the Humanitarian Respite Center, part of the Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley, provides crucial support to those in need.

Humanitarian Respite Center in the Rio Grande Valley

What they're saying:

The center, established in response to a community need a decade ago, offers a safe haven for families dropped off in the area. "They were dirty, muddy, hungry, crying, and afraid," Pimentel said. "We were able to ask the community to come together and provide for them."

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One family benefiting from the center's services is the Corvenalez family from Venezuela. After a difficult journey, including being held for ransom in Mexico and facing issues with the CBP One app, they turned themselves in to federal agents.

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"I decided to continue my journey to the border," said Dennys Corvenalez. "It wasn’t easy, but God lit up our path, and thanks to God, we’re here."

After two days in a detention center, Dennys and his family were released with a notice to appear before an immigration judge. Their final destination is Virginia. "The happiness I feel is for my children," he said. "It’s not easy as a father to expose your family to such dangers."

Will non-governmental organizations lose federal funding?

What we don't know:

With the incoming Trump administration, federal funding for nonprofits like Catholic Charities may become scarce. "If the help is there, then good. If not, more community effort will be needed."

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What's next:

Donald Trump will take office for his second term on Jan. 20, and he has promised to make sweeping changes to border security and immigration on day one of his presidency.

The Source: FOX 26's Jonathan Mejia traveled to the Rio Grande Valley and got an inside look at the Humanitarian Respite Center in McAllen and spoke directly with Sister Norma Pimentel and migrant families.

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