The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) confirms it will open an emergency intake site at the Summit Township dormitories (formerly part of Family First Sports Park) to house unaccompanied migrant children from the U.S.-Mexico border, according to a statement HHS provided to Erie News Now Monday.

The dormitory space at 8155 Oliver Road will provide shelter for children ages 12 and under and "is intended for use as a temporary measure," HHS said.

The facility, owned by Glen Renaud, also houses the Pennsylvania International Academy. According to the HHS statement, PIA has a maximum capacity of 648 beds.

Rep. Mike Kelly said his office was informed that 150 migrant children will arrive in Erie Tuesday, and more may arrive in the coming days. 

Erie News Now first reported that Homeland Security federal protective service agents made their presence known at those dorms Monday morning.

They placed security tape across the entrance to the parking lot and are checking the purpose and identity of any vehicles arriving.  Some said they are volunteers, a plumbing, heating and air conditioning contractor also arrived.

Their vehicles indicated they are with the Department of Homeland Security. 

Officials with the Erie County Health Department say they were contacted last week to see if they had the capacity to provide vaccinations, physicals, COVID-19 and lice checks for as many as 300 to 500 children.  At this time, Charlotte Berringer, Director of Community Health Services, said the county does not have the capacity to help. Those services will have to be privately contracted. 

 
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