By: Roxane Ramos For migrants attempting to cross the U.S.–Mexico border in the sweltering summer months, a wrong turn or a leaky water bottle can be a death sentence. In April 2014, an impressive delegation of Catholic clergy—including seven bishops and 17 priests—visited Nogales, Arizona to draw attention to the immigration crisis at the U.S.–Mexico border. While there, they celebrated a Mass at the border fence in commemoration of the many migrants who have died while crossing. Cardinal …Read More

The KBI’s new staff members bring a wealth of experience and commitment to the KBI. By: Roxane Ramos The Kino Border Initiative welcomes two new staff members who are not so new to the KBI—Associate Director Javier Fierro and Director of Education and Advocacy Joanna Foote Williams have worked as volunteers in the past, serving deported migrants and supporting the KBI’s mission. Here’s a little bit more about them. Javier Fierro, Associate Director: Javier Fierro has volunteered …Read More

By: Roxane Ramos Along with meals, medical attention and shelter, the Kino Border Initiative also provides clothing and personal care items to the migrants who visit the comedor. Frequently, the shirts and pants of the migrants need to be replaced after their journeys or stays in detention; and not surprisingly, their shoes are completely worn out. Your donations of gently used items in good condition can truly make a difference to the people the KBI serves, and help to restore some dignity …Read More

Each year, this KBI fundraising event recognizes the urgent work of the KBI and the vital role of donors, volunteers and others in keeping these programs strong. By: Roxane Ramos A little drizzle did nothing to dampen the enthusiasm of the 260 supporters who gathered for the Sixth Annual KBI Dinner on Saturday, February 28. As planning committee chair Lucy Howell noted, “Weather is never an obstacle. We had to hustle folks into dinner once the rain started, but the support for the KBI …Read More

Jesuits representatives from the U.S. and Canada visit the KBI to learn more about the migrant experience and the reality of the border. By: Roxane Ramos During their February meeting in Tucson, representatives from the Jesuit provinces in the U.S. Canada, and Central America (11 provinces in all) took the opportunity to visit the KBI’s border ministry. On Sunday, February 8, they gathered at the comedor with the migrants for a dialogue, a Mass celebrated by Father Sean, and a shared meal. …Read More