Sleeping area at a shelter that's part of the Casa Alitas program on March 1, 2024.
Congressman Juan Ciscomani has called for an investigation into the Southern Arizona shelter Casa Alitas for potentially misusing federal funds.
His call for an investigation comes after reports of corruption and conflict of interest broke last week. One alleges the Casa Alitas Executive director employed a laundry service owned by his own mother, and was overcharged by that company by at least $200,000.
““It is critical that we ensure transparency and accountability in the use of federal funds meant to address the ongoing migrant crisis. Congress, and the American people, deserve transparency and anyone who has taken advantage of these programs must be held accountable,” he wrote in a statement.
Casa Alitas is run by Catholic Community Services of Southern Arizona and is one of the biggest organizations helping asylum seekers who cross the Arizona-Mexico border.
Ciscomani says an investigation is needed to ensure federal funds meant for the migrant crisis are being used appropriately. The organization has received over $21 million in federal money this year so far.
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