Today, Jesuit Refugee Service Ecuador welcomed New York City Mayor Eric Adams to its shelter in Quito, as he continued his tour of Central and South American countries to gain a better understanding of the push and pull factors causing thousands to migrate through the region. During the one-hour visit, Mayor Adams met with JRS staff at the “La Argelia Shelter” which hosts refugees and migrants from Colombia and Venezuela who have fled humanitarian crises, armed conflict, and political instability. With support from the State Department Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM) the shelter provides critical protection, economic, and legal services.

“Today we were able to let Mayor Adams knows the important actions being taken in order to meet the needs of those who are migrating to and through Ecuador,” said María Belén Carrillo, National Director of JRS Ecuador. “We hope that what he saw, heard and experienced has given him a greater appreciation for the desperation that many of those who are forced to flee face when making those difficult decisions; and also the critical situation of the Ecuadorian population, caused by multidimensional poverty and the increase of international criminal organizations linked to narcotraffic.” 

Mayor Adams has been one of the most outspoken American mayors calling attention to the situations their cities face in trying to provide services for migrants. According to the itinerary for his Ecuador trip, the Mayor will meet with JRS as well as other governmental and non-governmental agencies.  

“We understand the challenges that cities all across the United States are facing as more migrants seek asylum,” said Joan Rosenhauer, President of JRS/USA. “We appreciate Mayor Adams took the time to see first-hand the desperate situations people are fleeing as they seek safety and opportunities to work, rebuild their lives and contribute to local communities in the US.”