Northern Mexico's Casa de Migrantes: A Light in the Darkness for Migrants Nina Lakhani - Al Jazeera
go to original March 10, 2014

For close to two decades, thousands of Central American migrants have lost their dreams, limbs and lives trying to illegally cross Mexican territory. Mexico represents a great challenge for those whose only goal is to reach the northern border hoping to incorporate themselves into the United States. (Pedro Ultreras)

SALTILLO, Mexico - This is the last safe house before the border and dozens of migrants are anxiously waiting for "that call" from the US - a friend or relative to confirm they have enough money to pay a coyote, or guide, $1,000 to $2,500 to get across the border safely. Crossing alone has become incredibly dangerous as the Zetas or Gulf Cartel, depending on where you cross, demand a fee for each migrant. Getting caught without paying can cost you your life.

Last year 8,000 migrants were hosted at the Saltillo Casa - 90 percent of whom came from Honduras, where the exodus has intensified since the June 2009 coup d'état exacerbated existing violence and poverty. Between 8 to 10 percent are women. Children are uncommon as most parents leave them behind with relatives; however, Al Jazeera interviewed six within five days, aged between 10 and 15.

From here, most will attempt to cross at Reynosa or Nuevo Laredo in Tamaulipas. There is a mix of first-timers, veteran border crossers and deportees determined to get back to the US. Almost everyone has survived some horror at home or en route. But those who suffer the worst attacks usually turn back, according to Alberto Carrasco, director of the Casa.

The gated Casa is flanked by the stunning mountains of the Sierra Madre Oriental and just one block away from the railway tracks, where The Beast chugs past four times a day. The rules are very strict to guard against cartels, marasa (street gangs), coyotes and the police, eager to prey on the vulnerable migrants.

Read the rest at Al Jazeera

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