Border Crisis: Church Steps Up Where Government Fails

In the heart of Texas, a group of Episcopal churches is putting the "Go and Do Likewise" spirit into action, helping immigrant families seeking asylum find their footing in the face of a mounting housing crisis. Austin, with around 12,000 refugees and asylum seekers, is a melting pot of those escaping persecution, torture, and death.

St. David’s Episcopal Church, along with Casa Marianella refugee house, launched the "Go and Do Likewise" initiative to tackle the escalating housing needs of these families. Their mission? To provide short-term housing, cover initial costs for three months, and help families transition to independence.

"We don't have to agree with the open-border agenda," said The Rev. Jim Harrington, "but we do believe in helping those in genuine need. Safe, affordable housing is a basic human right."

Casa Marianella, the only shelter in Austin dedicated solely to immigrants, currently has 65% of its residents, including children, seeking asylum. Many arrive from detention centers and face a harsh welcome in the U.S.

"These families face daunting challenges, including lack of resources and complex immigration laws," Harrington explained. "While the government slacks, we step up."

With Austin's housing market booming, finding low-cost apartments near bus lines is like finding a needle in a haystack. Go and Do Likewise bridges that gap, helping families navigate leases, online rent payments, and apartment rules.

"Asylum seekers can work legally after three months, but finding affordable housing is a whole other ball game," Harrington added.

The initiative welcomes individuals and faith communities to join them. For more information or to lend a hand, email jim@stjamesaustin.org.

TL;DR: Church group steps up to help asylum seekers find housing in Austin while the government sits on its hands.

Full disclosure: The Rev. Jim Harrington is a human rights lawyer and priest serving the Proyecto Santiago community at St. James’ Episcopal Church in East Austin. Doing Good Together is compiled by Interfaith Action of Central Texas, interfaithtexas.org.