The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that it has conducted its first charter flight for migrants wishing to self-deport from the United States.
Sixty-four migrants traveled from Houston, Texas, to Honduras and Colombia, DHS said. The migrants received travel assistance, a $1,000 stipend, and preserved their ability to return to the United States legally.
The department noted that the flight was “voluntary,” not an ICE operation.
Migrants returning to Honduras took part in the “Hermano, Hermana, Vuelve a Casa” program, where they were given an additional $100 and assistance finding employment upon their return. Those returning to Colombia were provided services from the Family Welfare Institute (ICBF) and the Department of Social Prosperity.
“Today, DHS conducted its first Project Homecoming charter flight of 64 individuals who voluntarily chose to self-deport to their home counties of Honduras and Colombia,” DHS Secretary Kristi Noem said in a statement. “If you are here illegally, use the CBP Home App to take control of your departure and receive financial support to return home. If you don’t, you will be subjected to fines, arrest, deportation and will never be allowed to return. If you are in this country illegally, self-deport NOW and preserve your opportunity to potentially return the legal, right way.”
DHS said earlier this month that its self-deportation program is 70% cheaper than current deportation costs. The average cost to arrest, detain, and remove an illegal immigrant is more than $17,000. Illegal immigrants can participate in the program through the CBP Home App.
