Closed casino hotels in Mississippi could potentially be repurposed to house unaccompanied migrant children, according to sources familiar with the situation.
As the number of unaccompanied children crossing the US-Mexico border continues to rise, the Biden administration is exploring options to provide shelter for these vulnerable individuals. One potential solution being considered is to utilize empty casino hotels in states like Mississippi, where there is a surplus of vacant properties due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The idea of repurposing closed casino hotels for this purpose has sparked debate among lawmakers and advocates on both sides of the political spectrum. Some argue that it is a necessary measure to ensure that these children are provided with safe and adequate housing, while others raise concerns about the appropriateness of using a commercial space for such a purpose.
The Mississippi Gaming Commission has confirmed that they are in talks with federal officials about the possibility of converting closed casino hotels into temporary shelters for unaccompanied migrant children. According to commission spokesperson Allen Godfrey, several properties have been identified as potential candidates for this initiative.
“It’s important to remember that these are children who are in desperate need of help and protection,” Godfrey said. “If we can provide a safe and secure environment for them to stay while they await placement with family members or sponsors, then it’s a worthwhile endeavor.”
However, not everyone is on board with the idea. Some local residents and lawmakers have expressed reservations about bringing unaccompanied migrant children into their community, citing concerns about overcrowding, strain on resources, and potential safety risks.
“I understand that these children are in a difficult situation, but we have to think about the impact it could have on our community,” said state representative Sarah Johnson. “We need to consider the well-being of our residents as well.”
Despite the controversy surrounding the proposal, supporters argue that repurposing closed casino hotels could provide a practical solution to a pressing humanitarian issue. With proper oversight and support from federal agencies, they believe that these properties could serve as a temporary refuge for unaccompanied migrant children until more permanent arrangements can be made.
As discussions continue between federal and state officials, the fate of closed casino hotels in Mississippi remains uncertain. However, one thing is clear – the need to address the growing number of unaccompanied migrant children arriving at the US border is an urgent and complex challenge that will require innovative solutions from all stakeholders involved.
