Episcopal Diocese of West Texas Announces Closure of Plaza de Paz Respite Center

After much prayerful consideration, the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas will close the Plaza de Paz Respite Center indefinitely. The decision was made following a months-long downward trend in migrant neighbor arrivals at the shelter. The trend is consistent with the falling number of apprehensions reported by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the U.S.-Mexico border. In addition, the future of federal grants awarded to the diocese for the operation of the shelter remains uncertain, fueling concerns about the facility's sustainability amid rising costs.

Flor Saldivar, Director of Immigration + Refugee Ministries shares, “We opened Plaza de Paz in response to an urgent need for a migrant shelter in San Antonio. We could have never imagined the program would continue for three and a half years. We are so deeply appreciative of the time, energy, and support shared with us by our partners and congregations of the Diocese of West Texas. Plaza de Paz would not have been possible without you.”

Though shelter operations will cease, it does not mean the end of the diocesan Immigration + Refugee Ministries. The program will continue to provide training, calls to action, and serve as a resource for churches to respond faithfully to the needs of the immigrant community.

The Rt. Rev. Dr. David G. Read, D.D., Bishop of the Diocese of West Texas, shared, “Plaza de Paz has been a blessing to the diocese and beyond. I have witnessed the Holy Spirit at work in the Center and give thanks to all who have opened their hearts and offered their hands to help serve those in need. The Immigration + Refugee Ministries continue to be an important ministry for the diocese in carrying out the work God has called us to do.”

Immigration + Refugee Ministries has paused all requests for in-kind donations and meal kits. However, groups and individuals available to volunteer between January 29 and February 15 to support the closing of the shelter are welcome to register by clicking here. Donations to the ministry are appreciated for continued work.

For questions or to learn more about opportunities to get involved, contact Flor Saldivar at flor.saldivar@dwtx.org.

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