Chicago and Other US Cities Struggle to Shelter Asylum Seekers as Winter Weather Begins

Over 20,000 migrants sheltering in city infrastructures such as police stations and airports, as city officials estimate spending $255 million in 2023 on migrant crisis, amid criticisms over inefficiencies and lack of long-term planning.

• More than 20,000 asylum-seekers, largely directed by Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, have arrived in Chicago since last year, overwhelming city infrastructures such as police stations and airports.
• Mayor Brandon Johnson has proposed winterized tents and more shelters to accommodate the migrants, currently sleeping on police station floors, in airport waiting areas and even on the streets.
• Critics, including volunteers, churches, and some aldermen, accuse the city of inefficiency and lack of long-term planning in its handling of the migrant crisis.
• More than 3,000 migrants are living inside airports and police stations waiting for placements; some have resorted to setting up tents in nearby streets and vacant lots due to overcrowding.
• City officials estimate that they will spend approximately $255 million on the migrant crisis in 2023.

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