Community leaders urge Baltimore council to increase funding for immigrant services

In the heart of Baltimore's city hall, voices rose in a passionate plea for change during the City Council's Budget & Appropriations Committee Taxpayers' Night. As community members gathered on May 15, 2025, the air was thick with urgency and hope, particularly for the city's immigrant population and youth programming.

Chrisley Veil Los Santos, representing CASA, a prominent immigrant advocacy organization, opened the discussion with a heartfelt appeal for increased funding to support immigrant families. "We must fund youth programs, and we need to include people that speak all languages," Santos urged, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in city initiatives. The proposed budget, he noted, fell short in addressing the needs of those who often face economic hardships and emotional turmoil due to legal challenges.

Santos shared poignant stories from CASA's hotline, where staff engage daily with families grappling with the realities of detention and deportation. He highlighted the resilience of Baltimore's immigrant community, noting their contributions to the city's cultural and economic fabric. "They are not just people that come in here and sit back. They are people who invest in our city," he stated, referencing the growing number of local businesses that reflect the diverse heritage of the community.

Juliana Valencia Banks, a member of the mayor's Hispanic Commission, echoed these sentiments, calling for a budget that recognizes the vital role immigrants play in Baltimore's growth. "We need a budget that meets this moment," she insisted, advocating for enhanced legal services and support for immigrant-serving nonprofits that are struggling to stay afloat. Her words resonated deeply, as she reminded council members that immigrants are not merely taxpayers but integral members of the community.

Matthew D'Alessmore, a program director at Catholic Charities Esperanza Center, reinforced the urgency of the situation. He described the ongoing crisis faced by the immigrant community and urged the council to invest in their future. D'Alessmore shared success stories of families accessing essential public benefits, illustrating how targeted support can transform lives. "That baby, that 1-year-old is our future," he said, emphasizing the long-term benefits of investing in families today.

As the evening unfolded, it became clear that the discussions were not just about numbers on a budget sheet; they were about the lives and dreams of Baltimore's residents. The call for a more inclusive and supportive budget echoed through the hall, leaving council members with a profound reminder of their responsibility to all constituents, regardless of their background. The meeting concluded with a sense of determination, as community members and advocates alike hoped for a budget that truly reflects the city's diverse and vibrant spirit.