Yuma shelter hits capacity on occasion while Phoenix numbers decrease

In recent weeks, shelters used to house illegal immigrants released from Border Patrol and Immigration Customs Enforcement custody in Phoenix have seen less traffic. While in Yuma, the shelter has hit capacity on several occasions.

Capacity at the Yuma shelter fluctuates. Captain Jeff Breazeale said Tuesday it’s below capacity with only 66 people in the shelter that holds 200. But there have been days when max capacity has been reached.

This is what ultimately lead Yuma Mayor Doug Nicholls to sign an emergency declaration earlier this month.

Meanwhile in Phoenix housing, those released by Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Phoenix said the number of people at their shelters decreased in recent weeks.

“At the same time Yuma was building up, Phoenix was open for business. We had empty beds. So we were all very startled and amazed that the mayor of Yuma says he had a local emergency,” explained Mary Jo Miller with Refugee Aid.

Lutheran Social Services, a faith-based group in Phoenix that is running several shelters in the area, explained that just like in Yuma, not one dollar has come from the city.

News 11 asked the organization whether transportation issues could be solved by a nonprofit organization (NGO).

“I think it’s something to discuss. I’m not convinced that that’s necessary. I think we really need to look at what the resources are there. They have been transporting, so what really is the answer there?” Connie Johnson with Lutheran Social Services.