Rep. Kelly demands accountability from Secretary Noem concerning lack of food in ICE facilities
December 9, 2025
CHICAGO – U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) led 28 Members of Congress in demanding answers from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem concerning reports of poor-quality food – and in some cases, lack of food and water – provided to immigrants held in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcements facilities. Immigration advocates and people who have been detained said they have even gotten sick from spoiled food, experienced hunger, and was given moldy food.
These are not the first reports of poor-quality food and hunger in ICE detention facilities. A Government Accountability Office report released in May 2025 noted more than 500 deficiencies related to food service.
“Given the scale of detention being carried out by this Administration, we urge DHS and ICE to provide answers about food service operations within detention facilities,” the Members wrote in the letter. “It is important to note, detention is a civil, not criminal, process as ICE’s own website notes ‘Detention is non-punitive.’ While individuals are held in ICE custody, they deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, which includes providing all detainees with complete and nutritious meals.”
Issues:Health CareImmigration