CHICAGO - Mayor Johnson, along with faith leaders and charitable organizations, gathered on Tuesday morning to address the migrant crisis in Chicago. In an effort to provide temporary shelter for migrants, the mayor unveiled a "unity initiative" that will move some individuals from police stations into 17 churches, as construction begins on a winterized tent camp.

Despite the planned construction start date being set for Wednesday, a WGN News crew observed significant activity at the campsite on Tuesday. The tent camp is expected to open its doors to migrants in mid-December.

To facilitate the move, buses will be deployed on Wednesday morning to transport migrants to the designated churches. Priority will be given to pregnant women, children, and those who have been sleeping outside.

Each church will accommodate approximately 20 migrants, with necessary social services and other support provided. Pastor John Zayas emphasized that the 17 churches involved are just the beginning of a wider network.

Mayor Johnson highlighted the Chicago faith community's historical generosity in welcoming people during The Great Migration. He expressed gratitude for their ongoing support and outlined his new rule, which imposes a 60-day limit on shelter stays.

The mayor's plan aims to address the immediate needs of migrants while ensuring that shelter resources are fairly distributed among those in need. As the winter season approaches, providing appropriate accommodation for vulnerable individuals becomes increasingly crucial.

While the construction of the tent camp progresses, the temporary relocation of migrants to churches offers a compassionate and practical solution. It is hoped that this initiative will alleviate some of the pressure on police stations and provide a safer and more comfortable environment for those seeking refuge.

As Chicago works towards finding long-term solutions to the migrant crisis, the collaborative efforts between the city government, faith leaders, and charitable organizations exemplify the commitment to supporting and protecting vulnerable populations in times of need.