The Government of Mexico has inaugurated a support center in Ciudad Juárez, a border city with the United States, aimed at receiving Mexican citizens deported by the Administration of U.S. President Donald Trump. The project is part of the 'Mexico Embraces You' strategy announced by President Claudia Sheinbaum on January 20.
The center is exclusively intended for repatriated Mexicans, while foreigners will receive assistance at the 'Leonardo Hicari' Migrant Welfare Center. Authorities have emphasized that this project responds to a preventive strategy of the federal government, providing a place of shelter and assistance for repatriated individuals.
The facilities have a capacity for 1,500 people and include accommodation areas, dormitories, showers, bathrooms, and a community kitchen managed by the Secretary of National Defense. Additionally, the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) will offer three months of free medical services to repatriates.
The municipal government of Ciudad Juárez has highlighted its coordination with the federal strategy, while the municipal human rights office will provide guidance to beneficiaries. Héctor Rafael Ortiz, the city secretary, indicated that the needs of individuals at the center will be addressed through different areas such as Civil Protection, Public Security, and Public Services.
Mayra Chávez, delegate in the state of Chihuahua from the Secretary of Welfare, mentioned some additional support. A relevant detail is the 'Bienestar Paisano Card' that provides 2,000 Mexican pesos to each beneficiary to cover their transportation expenses to their home communities, excluding expenses related to travel to the support center or medical services. At the moment, no closing date for the center has been determined; its operation will be subject to the evolution of the migration situation and the guidelines of President Sheinbaum.
