Dear Friends and Neighbors of Southwest Kansas,

Over the past several days, many families and individuals across Southwest Kansas have experienced anxiety, uncertainty, and fear as a result of immigration enforcement activities occurring in our communities. They are our neighbors, coworkers, parishioners, classmates, customers, and friends. Many are families who have worked hard, contributed to our communities, and sought only the opportunity to provide a better future for their children and families.

I am distraught that this is happening in a community I love and in a part of the state that I believe is the best of Kansas.

My heart is broken for those who are hurting today. I am concerned for children who may be separated from loved ones, for families facing uncertainty, and for individuals who are afraid of what tomorrow may bring. Regardless of one's views on immigration policy, we can all recognize the human impact these situations have on families and communities. 

At the same time, I have witnessed something deeply inspiring. Throughout Southwest Kansas, people have stepped forward to help. Neighbors have checked on neighbors. Churches have opened their doors. Employers, educators, community organizations, and volunteers have worked together to meet urgent needs. People have shared food, transportation, information, childcare, prayers, and encouragement.

I am very grateful for the individuals, churches, organizations, and businesses who have stepped up to help. It is what I have come to expect.

The unity demonstrated by our communities reflects the very best of Southwest Kansas. In moments of uncertainty, compassion has prevailed over division. People from many different backgrounds have come together to support one another with kindness, respect, and generosity. This spirit of solidarity reminds us that we are stronger when we stand together and care for those who are struggling.

At Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas, we remain committed to walking alongside individuals and families during difficult times. While immediate needs are important, we also recognize that lasting recovery and stability require long-term support.

In the months ahead, Catholic Charities will continue to:

• Provide accredited immigration legal services and trusted information to individuals seeking to understand their options and responsibilities. While our regular immigration services are fee-based, Catholic Charities is not charging individuals for our time and assistance related to the current immigration enforcement situation. We are also accepting donations to help cover the legal fees of attorneys who represent individuals in removal proceedings.
• Assist families who may be experiencing housing insecurity due to loss of income. Federal regulations may limit who is eligible for our different housing programs, but we will assess anyone who is struggling to meet their housing needs.
• Connect individuals with counseling services as a result of the loss and trauma they have experienced.
• Partner with churches, schools, businesses, and community organizations to identify unmet needs and strengthen local support networks.
• Continue to advocate for immigration reform, as we have since 2005. Our current immigration system does not adequately address the needs of individuals and families seeking relief from harmful conditions in their home countries. It also does not adequately address the needs of communities for a functional workforce, families' ability to provide for themselves, or the needs of our local economies.

Our mission calls us to recognize the inherent dignity of every human person. In times of uncertainty, that mission becomes even more important. We may not be able to solve every challenge, but we can choose how we respond. We can choose compassion. We can choose understanding. We can choose to support those who are vulnerable.

I am deeply grateful to the people of Southwest Kansas who continue to do exactly that. 

Please continue to pray for all families affected, for our communities, and for all those entrusted with difficult responsibilities. Please continue to give your best for the greater good. May we move forward together with courage, compassion, and hope.

With gratitude,

Debbie Snapp
Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas"

Whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me."
Matthew 25:40