Community Protests Proposal for Migrant Housing

A proposed plan to house up to 1,000 undocumented migrant minors in a historic orphanage in Scotland, Pennsylvania, has ignited significant opposition from local residents and lawmakers. The facility, previously known as the Scotland School for Veterans Children, has been targeted by the Indiana-based disaster response organization USA Up Star, which seeks to utilize it for shelter under the pretense of aiding refugee families. Local officials have expressed concerns about the suitability of the site, citing zoning restrictions that prevent its use as a higher-density shelter. Republican lawmakers, including state Sen. Doug Mastriano, have labeled the proposal a 'foreign invasion' and voiced fears about the community's safety and resources. While USA Up Star claims to be working with federal authorities to navigate zoning issues, local officials remain steadfast in their opposition. Critics argue that the alarmist rhetoric surrounding the issue is premature and mischaracterizes the intentions behind the inquiry.