BARNSTABLE, Mass. — Governor Charlie Baker released new details Sunday regarding the shelter and humanitarian support being provided at Joint Base Cape Cod for the 50 Venezuelan migrants who were unexpectedly sent to Martha’s Vineyard this week.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis says he sent two planes carrying about 50 migrants to the Vineyard on Wednesday in protest against the rise of illegal immigration and to draw attention to what Republican-led states consider to be the Biden administration’s failed border policies.
On Friday, 125 members of the Massachusetts National Guard were activated as the migrants were voluntarily relocated from Martha’s Vineyard to Joint Base Cape Cod.
Baker’s office released more details Sunday on the services being provided at the facility, which the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is coordinating to ensure access to food, shelter, and essential needs for these men, women, and children.
Baker said “the dormitory-style” space at Joint Base Cape Cod allows families to remain together and to ensure their continued safety, security, and privacy.
MEMA continues to collaborate with state agencies and non-profit organizations to provide individuals and families with access to a variety of services including, clothing, hygiene kits, food and drinks, transportation, and access to health care, and legal services.
UPDATE: Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced an update regarding shelter and humanitarian support being provided at Joint Base Cape Cod for the approximately 50 migrants who arrived in Martha’s Vineyard this week.
— Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (@EOPSS) September 18, 2022
➡️https://t.co/Y3eVAjCT9B
📽️@TheNationsFirst pic.twitter.com/0nV7PUGFXY
State Rep. Fernandes and lawyers for Civil Rights called upon U.S. attorney Rachael Rollins and Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey to open a criminal investigation into what they called a “political stunt.”
We are requesting that the Department of Justice open an investigation to hold DeSantis & others accountable for these inhumane acts. Not only is it morally criminal, there are legal implications around fraud, kidnapping, deprivation of liberty, and human trafficking.
— Dylan Fernandes (@RepDylan) September 18, 2022
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.
Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
©2022 Cox Media Group