Cities in the United States are exploring alternative ways to house migrants as they face a surge of arrivals. The city of Denver, Colorado, has reached out to rental property owners, asking if they would be interested in renting to migrants who need housing. The city is currently scaling back its migrant services in an effort to reduce the budget deficit and consolidate shelters. Denver officials have set a rent cap of $2,000 and are working with nonprofits to connect migrants with available housing options.
This idea is not unique to Denver, as other cities have also proposed similar solutions. In New York City, Mayor Eric Adams suggested the possibility of eventually housing migrants in private dwellings and paying landlords or homeowners. He believes that this approach would allow the city to redirect funds from corporations and back into the pockets of everyday New Yorkers and houses of worship.
In Chicago, a sanctuary city, lawmakers proposed a sign-up sheet for residents willing to host migrant families in their homes. However, this proposal was later abandoned, with the city council determining that state and federal agencies should handle such actions.
Massachusetts Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll called on state residents to open their doors and host migrant families due to a shortage of shelters. Governor Maura Healey echoed this sentiment, stating that housing and shelter are pressing needs and urging residents to offer a helping hand.
Similarly, in Michigan, state officials asked residents to house refugees in their homes and assist with their resettlement. The state’s Department of Labor and Economic Development outlined the expectations for sponsors, including greeting refugees at the airport, securing initial housing, enrolling children in school, and helping adults find employment.
These initiatives highlight the challenges faced by cities dealing with a significant influx of migrants. By exploring alternative housing options and seeking assistance from residents, these cities aim to alleviate the pressure on shelters and provide support to those in need.
