Family Reunification

 

Who We Serve

The Safe Passages Family Reunification program serves undocumented children detained by the Department of Homeland Security and placed in the custody of the Office of Refugee Resettlement/Division of Unaccompanied Children’s Services (ORR/DUCS).  Some children were detained while entering the United States, and others were placed into custody after living in the United States for several years. 

 

What We Do

The USCCB/MRS Unaccompanied Alien Children or “Safe Passages” program began in 1994 and is currently funded by the Division of Unaccompanied Children’s Services (DUCS) of the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR).  The program provides for the release and family reunification or long-term foster care of unaccompanied, undocumented children who have been apprehended by immigration officials.  The program provides an alternative to detention and supports family reunification whenever possible.

  Home Study Services     Follow-Up Services
  • 1-4 Home Visits
  • Assessment of Sponsor’s Relationship and Commitment to Child
  • Assessment of Safety & Appropriateness
  • Assessment of Criminal Smuggling & Trafficking Risks
  • Verification of Sponsor’s Residential and Financial Stability
  • Child Abuse and Neglect Check on Sponsor
  • Education Provided to Sponsor to Meet Child’s Special Needs
  •  
  • Help Enrolling in School
  • Help Finding a Pro Bono Immigration Attorney
  • Counseling/Therapeutic Referrals
  • Referrals  to Low-Cost and Free Medical, Dental,  and Prescription Drug Services
  • Assistance Complying with DHS/Immigration Hearings and Appointments
  • Community Orientation and Referrals to Community Resources
 

What You Can Do

Social Service providers can conduct home studies, follow-up or counseling services for unaccompanied, undocumented youth!  Contact Children’s Services at USCCB to learn how your child welfare agency can assist in family reunification efforts.    

 

 



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