**Increase in Migrant Presence in Tijuana Shelters**
As the year comes to a close, migrant shelters in Tijuana are experiencing a moderate increase in the number of individuals seeking refuge. Claudia Portela, the administrator of Proyecto Salesiano, highlighted this trend, emphasizing that several factors contribute to this rise.
Many individuals are making their way to the border to secure appointments with Customs and Border Protection (CBP), uncertain of the changes January might bring. Others are arriving due to displacement caused by violence in their home regions.
Additionally, there has been a notable uptick in people returning to Mexico after being sent back from the United States since October. “We’ve observed a steady influx, not doubling, perhaps, but certainly growing,” Portela noted.
The shelters are also becoming temporary homes for people escaping violence in Mexico’s southern states, such as Michoacán and Guadalajara. Particularly noteworthy is the arrival of groups from Sinaloa, a state grappling with escalating violence for over two months, leading individuals to seek asylum in the United States. “Following a recent series of kidnappings, there was a significant flow of migrants to Tijuana, either trying to cross the border or looking to settle elsewhere due to threats to their safety,” Portela explained.
Looking ahead, Tijuana is preparing to handle potential mass deportations from the United States, influenced by recent political developments. Portela emphasized the need for vigilance in responding to the potential increase in returns.
**Tijuana Anticipates Further Migrant Challenges**
Recent reports indicate that Tijuana is on high alert, preparing for a potential wave of mass deportations from the United States under new political directives. This preparation is essential as the city continues to experience increased migrant arrivals and anticipates more in the coming months.
Local authorities and shelters are coordinating efforts to manage this influx, ensuring they have the resources to meet rising demands. This increase is partly driven by policy changes in the United States that could lead to more migrants returning to Tijuana, further straining existing facilities.
The community must remain adaptable, proactively addressing the challenges accompanying this steady flow of returning individuals, while continuing to offer refuge to those escaping violence in their home countries.