The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has imposed a six-year debarment on a Catholic migrant shelter located in McAllen, Texas, due to alleged misuse of federal grant funds. Investigators claim that the Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley (CCRGV) utilized federal resources beyond the designated time frames allowed for assisting migrants released by Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
This particular shelter, part of the Catholic Diocese of Brownsville, is facing a punishment that is double the typical duration for such infractions. Reports indicate that the DHS has identified multiple discrepancies regarding grant applications linked to the shelter’s operations.
Federal records reveal that a FEMA investigation, conducted on behalf of the DHS, determined that the CCRGV shelter improperly utilized grants. Findings showed 248 instances where federal funds were employed outside the permissible 45-day period for aiding migrants post-release from CBP custody. Following these revelations, the Texas Tribune confirmed that the shelter’s funding would indeed be suspended for six years.
Response from the Nonprofit
Leading the CCRGV is Sister Norma Pimentel, who has gained recognition for her humanitarian efforts, notably being named one of Time Magazine’s “100 Most Influential People” in 2020 and receiving a medallion of excellence from the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute in 2023. In light of the allegations, Pimentel has staunchly defended the nonprofit’s practices, asserting that the funding was utilized solely for the benefit of migrants sent to them by CBP.
“Those on the front lines of our humanitarian outreach know the work we do truly helps restore human dignity,” Pimentel stated. “I take very seriously every single dollar entrusted to us.”
The CCRGV’s official response, issued on November 28, emphasized their commitment to compliance with federal grant requirements and reiterated that all funds received were directed toward migrant care. The statement concluded with a poignant biblical reference: “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me.” (Matthew 25:35).
Since the announcement of the funding freeze, the nonprofit has not released any further statements regarding the situation.
