Southwest Key Programs, once known for running the largest network of shelters for unaccompanied migrant kids, has come under the spotlight for taking $3 billion in taxpayer money during the Biden administration. This nonprofit operated more than two dozen facilities spread across Texas, Arizona, and California. Inquiries were made to the DOJ for clarity on the dismissal of the lawsuit against Southwest Key.
Between fiscal years 2021 and 2024, the organization received billions to provide shelter services to children crossing the border alone, without parents or guardians. During this period, the nonprofit bumped up the salaries of several top executives significantly. Tax filings reveal that the vice president, Veronica Delgado-Savage, saw her salary rise by nearly 10%, from $297,792 in 2021 to $326,086 in 2023.
The chief information officer, Andy Harper, experienced a 198% pay increase, going from $214,356 to $637,806. Geraldo Rivera, who moved up from senior vice president to chief program officer, received a 78% salary boost, climbing from $312,791 to $555,998. Meanwhile, human resources chief Jose Arroyo-Davila’s pay shot up by 114%, from $308,694 to $661,298.
CEO Anselmo Villarreal’s paycheck soared by 139%, from $491,642 to $1,174,551 over those years. The New York Post reported that 12 other senior staffers also enjoyed raises ranging from 10% to 112%. It’s important to note that these significant pay hikes took place during the initial two years of Biden’s presidency.
At the same time, Southwest Key was mired in allegations that some of its employees had sexually abused children in their care between 2015 and 2023. The nonprofit faced a lawsuit from the Biden administration’s Department of Justice in 2024 over these troubling allegations. The DOJ claimed that staff members had subjected unaccompanied minors to unlawful sexual harassment and abuse.
Southwest Key did not provide a comment to the Post when asked. Last week, the Trump administration took decisive action, cutting off the nonprofit from receiving any more children and relocating those already in their shelters. The Health and Human Services and Justice Departments labeled it a move to end sexual abuse and harassment.
Interestingly, the Trump administration also withdrew the federal lawsuit against Southwest Key. As a consequence, Southwest Key had to furlough its employees. Last week, the organization expressed satisfaction that the lawsuit was dropped and firmly denied any claims of child sexual abuse in their shelters.
They emphasized that no settlement or payment was required. However, due to a sudden freeze in federal funding and a stop placement order from the Office of Refugee Resettlement, they had to make the tough call to furlough around 5,000 employees. This decision impacted staff and programs across the country.
A representative for Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa told the Post, “It is disgusting that vulnerable children suffered sexual abuse under Southwest Key’s watch.” Senator Grassley has reached out to the DOJ for more information on why the lawsuit was dismissed. He looks forward to having a follow-up conversation soon.
Stories like these highlight the importance of accountability and oversight, especially when taxpayer money is involved. The public deserves to know how funds are being used and to ensure that vulnerable children are protected. Such situations remind us of the need for vigilance and transparency in the use of federal resources.
These revelations about Southwest Key pose serious questions about the integrity of nonprofit organizations receiving government contracts. The significant raises for executives during a time of alleged misconduct raise eyebrows and demand deeper investigation. Ensuring that organizations entrusted with the care of children are held to the highest standards is crucial.
The case of Southwest Key brings to light the challenges in balancing the need for humanitarian aid with strict oversight. With billions in taxpayer dollars at stake, maintaining public trust is essential. As the story unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for transparency and accountability in government-funded programs.
Southwest Key’s situation underscores the vital role that watchdogs play in our society. It’s critical to safeguard the interests of children and taxpayers alike. The public expects and deserves nothing less than the highest ethical standards in all dealings involving public funds.
Brittany Mays is a dedicated mother and passionate conservative news and opinion writer. With a sharp eye for current events and a commitment to traditional values, Brittany delivers thoughtful commentary on the issues shaping today’s world. Balancing her role as a parent with her love for writing, she strives to inspire others with her insights on faith, family, and freedom.
