The Alliance, a refugee resettlement organization in Houston, has closed its doors after nearly 40 years of service. The nonprofit provided essential support to refugees, including food, clothing, job training, language classes, and financial coaching. However, the organization’s sudden closure in June came as a shock to many.
An investigation by the Houston Chronicle revealed that The Alliance had been facing financial challenges for at least a decade. Records kept by the governing board showed that the organization had overspent, under-fundraised, and misused federal grants. Andrea Ball, an investigative reporter at the Chronicle, explained that the organization had been spending too much on staff and building expenses, rather than on the services it was supposed to provide.
In October 2023, the board conducted an internal investigation into the organization’s financial problems, leading to a settlement with the CEO at the time, Dan Stoecker. It is still unclear whether The Alliance misused federal or state grants in a way that could lead to further repercussions. While some refugees who were receiving services from The Alliance have been taken in by other refugee groups, many have been left in limbo, struggling to access the support they need.
The closure of The Alliance has created a gap in refugee services in Houston, leaving many individuals without the assistance they relied on. The lack of a smooth transition has caused confusion and frustration among the refugee community. As they continue to navigate this challenging situation, it is important for other organizations and community members to step in and provide support to those affected by the closure of The Alliance.
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