WHO ARE UNACCOMPANIED CHILDREN?
Unaccompanied children, ages 0-17, come to the U.S. seeking safety from dangerous conditions like violence, gangs, and trafficking in their home countries. The Office of Refugee and Resettlement (ORR) oversees their care, placing them in shelters, foster care, or group homes while they await reunification with sponsors. Sponsors are typically family members or trusted individuals.
WHAT IS A HOME STUDY?
A home study is conducted by the Office of Refugee and Resettlement and assesses the potential sponsors’ ability to care for unaccompanied children entering the U.S. It includes interviews, a home visit, and a written report to evaluate the sponsor’s capacity to meet the child’s needs, prepare for their arrival, and verify information provided. The study ensures the safety and suitability of the sponsor’s home environment for the child.
Reasons why a child may be referred to a home study
Children may undergo a home study if they’re trafficking victims, have special needs, or have suffered abuse. The Office of Refugee and Resettlement (ORR) mandates studies if sponsors want to care for multiple unrelated children or a child aged 12 or younger. ORR may also conduct studies to ensure sponsors can care adequately for the child’s well-being.
Post-Release Services
- Purpose: Ensures safety and well-being of unaccompanied children after they leave ORR custody.
- Services: Links children and sponsors to community resources nationwide.
- Approach: Uses trauma-informed care to promote safety, empowerment, and healing, reducing re-traumatization and fostering resilience.
COMPREHENSIVE YOUTH SERVICES
Case Managers support youth and their families on their path to success by providing resources such as:
EDUCATION
LEGAL
PHYSICAL HEALTH
MENTAL HEALTH
SAFETY
COMMUNITY
RELIGIOUS AND SPIRITUAL SERVICES
POST-18 INTEGRATION
STATISTICS PROVIDED BY THE OFFICE OF REFUGEE AND RESETTLEMENT (ORR)
Age
Age breakdown of unaccompanied children by fiscal year (October 1—September 30)
Country of Origin
The top three countries of origin with the highest percentage of children in FY2023 were from Guatemala, followed by Honduras and El Salvador.
Gender
The top three countries of origin with the highest percentage of children in FY2023 were from Guatemala, followed by Honduras and El Salvador.
Home Studies and Post-Release Services
Number of home studies conducted by ORR and number of unaccompanied children served by Post-Release Services (PRS)
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Your donations allow us to bring valuable services to children and families throughout Southern California. Thank you for helping McKinley continue our mission, as we recognize and celebrate the unique contributions each individual makes to our community.
