Migrants Face Crisis in Costa Rica After U.S. Aid Cuts

Juan Antonio Allauca Robles and his family, fleeing danger in Ecuador, sought asylum in Costa Rica only to face uncertainty as U.S. aid to shelters was cut. They struggled to secure basic needs while Casa Esperanza transitioned from a supportive environment for migrants to shutting down. Gabriela Suárez and her daughter similarly faced hardships in their quest for safety, with crucial resources dwindling as the plight of migrants became more precarious.

Juan Antonio Allauca Robles, an Ecuadorian police officer, sought safety for his family amidst persistent threats from drug dealers. The family, which included his wife, three children, and relatives, navigated treacherous terrain through Colombia and Panama. They arrived in Costa Rica in late January after hearing of stringent U.S. border policies, prompting Allauca to file for asylum there instead of continuing to the United States.

After a series of nights spent in temporary accommodations, the family reached Casa Esperanza, a Christian shelter supported by the UN, hoping to stay for ten days while awaiting residence permits. However, news of a U.S. aid freeze meant the shelter would soon close, leaving the family in uncertainty as they struggled with exhaustion and hunger.

Without prospects for work permits that could take months, Allauca expressed concern for his family’s safety and stability in Costa Rica. They faced limbo in the Iglesia del Nazareno, relying on shared facilities. Casa Esperanza also stopped accepting new migrants due to funding issues, leaving them unable to provide essential resources.

Casa Esperanza had recently begun serving migrants with a new UN contract that provided funding for housing, food, and support services. Unfortunately, the shelter’s funding was abruptly cut after a mere three weeks, threatening to leave many vulnerable individuals on the streets.

The United Nations relies heavily on contributions from its member states, with the United States being the largest donor. Recent cuts in U.S. funding impacted various humanitarian efforts, including programs that assist migrants fleeing violence, reducing resources available during critical times.

Gabriela Suárez and her daughter arrived in Costa Rica from a dangerous neighborhood in Quito, seeking refuge. After becoming separated from her partner during their journey, Gabriela initially found support at Casa Esperanza. However, with the recent aid freeze, she faces difficult decisions regarding survival and whether to continue their journey to the U.S.-Mexico border.

The situation for migrants, such as Juan Antonio Allauca Robles and Gabriela Suárez, exacerbates with recent funding cuts to essential shelters like Casa Esperanza. These developments underline the critical need for consistent humanitarian support to ensure the safety and welfare of individuals seeking refuge from violence. As conditions worsen, the future for many families remains uncertain, challenging both their immediate survival and long-term stability.

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