Staff Reports
President Biden’s border strategy appears to have turned into an unexpected cash cow for Catholic Charities, raking in billions of taxpayer dollars while funneling aid to migrants. With an ever-expanding bureaucracy intent on funding projects designed to handle the ongoing immigration crisis, these religious organizations basked in the glow of government grants as the border chaos escalated. Perhaps the most striking aspect of this windfall is that it coincides with a federal watchdog raising eyebrows over how effectively these funds were being managed—or mismanaged.
Under Biden’s administration, local Catholic Charities strutted onto the financial stage with significant federal dollars flowing their way, primarily from the Departments of Health and Human Services and Homeland Security, as well as FEMA—yes, the agency meant for handling disasters is now also a player in the great immigration funding game. Recent criticisms from former President Trump and other Republicans have focused on the influx of money, with claims that it incentivizes further border crossings and indirectly supports those who break the law. Who could have guessed that trying to help might also look like a gravy train for organizations funded by those very taxpayers?
Biden immigration crisis was a boon for Catholic Charities, which raked in billions in grant money https://t.co/654pcqeF0p
— Just the News (@JustTheNews) February 12, 2025
Catholic Charities USA operates as a massive network of 168 local agencies throughout the United States, and they have become some of the biggest beneficiaries of this taxpayer largesse. Data shows that they pulled in over $2 billion in federal grants during Biden’s first term, outstripping previous years by a wide margin. For instance, Catholic Charities of Fort Worth experienced a jaw-dropping escalation in funding, jumping from a measly $11.7 million in 2021 to an extraordinary $401.7 million by 2023—talk about a glow-up! If only those struggling on the ground received the same kind of financial boost.
With such financial resources suddenly at their disposal, these local chapters have made names for themselves providing everything from housing to legal representation for immigrants. The churches and agencies have expanded their offerings dramatically, creating a comprehensive safety net for illegal immigrants in the process. Critics, however, argue that this expansion of services only serves to further embolden those flouting immigration laws. Perhaps it is time for an intervention?
Criticism is not limited to concerns over generous funding—mismanagement appears to merit equal attention. The Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General has flagged potential fraud risk, claiming that funding wasn’t always aligned with federal guidelines. Local organizations allegedly failed to keep accurate documentation of how grant money was utilized, raising the possibility that cash meant for legitimate refugee assistance may have been put to questionable use. This misuse of funds, particularly through FEMA’s newly adopted role in managing migration funding, leaves the door wide open for allegations of fiscal irresponsibility.
As Washington and various state governments scramble to deal with the fallout from years of open-border policies, the question remains: is it appropriate for disaster relief funds to be used for housing migrants? Republicans, including Senator Marsha Blackburn, have expressed outrage that FEMA is prioritizing these expenditures over helping communities affected by literal disasters. It’s a perfect recipe for frustration, where taxpayer dollars are funneled to support one political agenda while overlooking pressing needs back home.
