Bus with undocumented migrants sent from Texas arrives in Philadelphia 

A bus carrying around 30 undocumented migrants sent from Texas arrived at Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station early on Wednesday morning, authorities said. 

The bus left Del Rio, Texas, and arrived at Philadelphia’s station at around 6 a.m. local time. The migrants were greeted by volunteers, who were waiting for them with blankets, coats, and hot chocolate. 

Bus from Texas with migrants seeking asylum has arrived to Philadelphia. pic.twitter.com/HdmvHm3EXs

— Katherine Scott (@KScott6abc) November 16, 2022

The bus was the latest relocation of migrants organized by Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who has been sending undocumented migrants from the border to northern cities since the spring. Abbott sent the 300th bus filled with migrants from Texas to Chicago last week. 

While most of the migrants are not expected to stay in Philadelphia for the long term, city officials said they will support them and raise funds to get them to their final destinations. 

"As a proud welcoming city, we will greet our newly arrived neighbors with dignity and respect," Mayor Jim Kenney said this week, anticipating the arrival of the migrants. 

BREAKING: First bus of migrants arrived in Philadelphia. Mothers with infants among them. ⁦@PhillyPolice⁩ on hand to make sure all safe ⁦@FOX29philly⁩ pic.twitter.com/gcM8OdAUXn

— Steve Keeley (@KeeleyFox29) November 16, 2022

Philadelphia officials began preparing for the possible arrival of migrants from southern states since the summer. The city set up a welcome center at 600 E. Luzerne Street in North Philadelphia. 

Philadelphia officials have criticized Texas’ decision to bus migrants to their city. Philadelphia learned about the incoming bus of migrants through a nonprofit organization in Texas and the organization New Sanctuary Movement of Philadelphia, instead of hearing it from Texas officials. 

"Since this disturbing policy of busing immigrants in an uncoordinated way began occurring without warning in other cities, various City agencies have been arduously working with our community partners to ready the city to receive these individuals," Kenney said.