Immigration Dept. AXES “Support” Programs

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) terminates two migrant assistance programs due to high costs and minimal benefits.

At a Glance

  • ICE ends Wraparound Stabilization Service (WSS) and Young Adult Case Management Program (YACMP)
  • Programs aimed to increase compliance among non-detained migrants
  • Decision based on high costs and limited effectiveness
  • ICE continues to support “Alternatives to Detention” program
  • Over 7 million migrants currently in ICE’s non-detained docket

ICE Discontinues Costly Migrant Support Programs

Immigration and Customs Enforcement has made the decisive move to terminate two programs designed to assist migrants in complying with their release conditions. The Wraparound Stabilization Service (WSS) and the Young Adult Case Management Program (YACMP) have been discontinued due to their exorbitant costs and limited effectiveness. These programs were initially implemented to address the challenges posed by the over 7 million migrants currently in ICE’s non-detained docket.

The WSS program, launched in February 2020, provided psychosocial and behavioral health support to migrants. However, ICE’s evaluation revealed that it only improved compliance by a meager 2%. Similarly, the YACMP, introduced in 2023, offered legal and social services to 18- and 19-year-old migrants in 16 cities. Despite its targeted approach, ICE determined that the program was misaligned with its core mission.

ICE Cites Financial Constraints and Mission Alignment

The decision to end these programs was not made lightly. ICE conducted a thorough review of both initiatives, weighing their costs against their benefits. The agency’s findings were communicated to lawmakers who had inquired about ICE’s “Alternatives to Detention” program.

“ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) notes the challenge with the WSS was its immense cost with little improvement,” ICE said.

The department added, “In addition to fiscal limitations, a review of the program revealed that YACMP does not align with ERO’s mission or priorities.”

ICE further elaborated on its decision, stating, “As a result, ERO determined WSS was not cost effective enough to continue paying for these services when they did not benefit ICE or help the agency further its mission.”

Focus on Alternatives to Detention

While discontinuing the WSS and YACMP, ICE remains committed to its “Alternatives to Detention” program. This initiative uses technology such as GPS and smartphones to provide “oversight” of non-detained migrants. ICE reports high compliance rates for court appearances among participants in this program.

The agency’s focus on mission-aligned programs is evident in its decision not to renew the vendor contract for YACMP in June. This strategic realignment allows ICE to concentrate its resources on initiatives that directly support its core objectives and provide tangible benefits to both the agency and the public.

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