Denver relocates migrants across the country

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis, a Democrat, said 70 percent of newly arrived migrants in Denver do not wish to stay in the state, and local officials and nonprofits struggle to house them. At least 3,500 people have come to the city since Dec. 9. Officials are busing them to other places throughout the country. The state earmarked $5 million to assist migrants, including purchasing bus tickets to their desired destinations, but recent severe weather hindered many from leaving.

How is the influx affecting Denver? Mayor Michael Hancock declared a state of emergency on Dec. 15. City officials, as of Dec. 31, had spent more than $1 million in assistance and requested support from the federal government. Area nonprofit agencies, city departments, and state officials have also opened additional shelters.

Dig deeper: Read Addie Offereins’ report in WORLD Magazine about what is inside an immigrant processing center.