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US Catholic Bishops End Federal Refugee Partnership After Funding Cuts

The USCCB has terminated its half-century collaboration with the government, citing unsustainable funding reductions under the Trump administration and pursuing $24 million in unpaid funds.

Catholic bishops lead a march in solidarity with migrants, Monday, March 24, 2025, in downtown El Paso, Texas. (AP Photo/Andres Leighton)
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Overview

  • The US Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) announced it will not renew agreements for refugee resettlement and children's services, ending a partnership that spanned over 50 years.
  • The decision follows the Trump administration's suspension of refugee resettlement funding in January 2025, which the USCCB says made continuing the programs financially unfeasible.
  • The USCCB has filed legal action to recover approximately $24 million it claims is owed for resettlement work already completed under federal agreements.
  • The termination of the program will lead to reduced services for refugees and children, with layoffs already affecting a significant portion of the USCCB's Migration and Refugee Services staff.
  • While the organization plans to explore alternative ways to support refugees, it has called for community support and advocacy to address the needs of those impacted.