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The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has announced that it will not renew its cooperative agreements with the federal government regarding children’s services and refugee support. This decision comes after the Trump administration suspended a federal refugee resettlement program, which affected the USCCB’s ability to continue its refugee resettlement services. This suspension led to a reduction of staff by about one-third in the USCCB's Migration and Refugee Services Office in February.
Anthony Granado, an associate general secretary for policy and advocacy for the USCCB, stated that the conference is seeking reimbursement of approximately $24.3 million for services rendered under the suspended resettlement programs. Granado emphasized the longstanding partnership with the federal government and expressed disappointment in the current situation, which he says leaves the USCCB in an untenable position.
USCCB President Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio expressed sorrow over the decision not to renew agreements, noting, "The decision to reduce these programs drastically forces us to reconsider the best way to serve the needs of our brothers and sisters seeking safe harbor from violence and persecution." He added that the conference intends to identify alternative means of support for those impacted.
The USCCB has been involved in the resettlement of refugees, assisting in the care of unaccompanied refugee minors as required by federal law. Broglio remarked on the partnership's history, stating, "Over the years, partnerships with the federal government helped expand lifesaving programs, benefiting our sisters and brothers from many parts of the world."
Granado noted that the work was motivated by religious conviction, saying, "From the church’s perspective, this is about responding to the Gospel command."
The USCCB plans to continue advocating for policy reforms to ensure safe and orderly immigration processes. The organization remains committed to efforts against human trafficking and to seeking ways to provide support to those in need.
Kate Scanlon reported for OSV News on this story.
