Cardinal George Hopes to Help Border Children

George said the children are “in danger and without adequate shelter”

Cardinal Francis George is reportedly taking a stance on the immigration crisis facing the nation.

George told the Chicago Sun-Times he plans to ask the federal government for permission to feed and house unaccompanied children being brought to the United States from Central American countries.

George said the children are “in danger and without adequate shelter” and noted there needs to be “a compassionate and merciful response.”

The report states the Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago and Maryville Academy would provide the services for more than 400 children currently housed in nine Heartland Alliance locations.

A spokeswoman for the cardinal said the U.S. Health and Human Services Department will make a decision on whether or not they can aid the children after Aug. 6.

The announcement comes after Pope Francis said he wants tens of thousands of Central American children crossing the border into the United States to be “welcomed and protected.”

The pontiff said that immigration has been a hallmark of modern society.

"Many people forced to emigrate suffer, and often, die tragically," Francis said. "Many of their rights are violated. They are obliged to separate from their families and, unfortunately, continue to be the subject of racist and xenophobic attitudes."

He highlighted the crisis at the U.S. border and said the world must promote development in the home countries from where the children emigrate.

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