Unaccompanied Children - initial report

There has been a dramatic increase in the number of unaccompanied children crossing into the United States. In 2012 the number was 7,000; in 2013, about 24,000; and so far this year, more than 52,000 have arrived. The majority of the children are from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras.

Various reasons have been cited for the increase. A report from the UN Refugee Agency documents that these children are fleeing conscription into gangs and threats to their personal safety, including gender- and sexual- based violence.

The crisis has been deemed a humanitarian emergency, and the U.S. Government has appointed FEMA to lead the coordination effort to create a matrix of existing agencies and the services they can provide. 

Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) will be working with congregations and mid councils along the border that are especially impacted by this situation in addressing needs. We are also collaborating with our ecumenical and interfaith partners who have experience in working with refugees and immigrants and who are also responding to the growing crisis along the southern U.S. border.

How you can help.

Give.  Share your financial blessings to help provide humanitarian relief for children arriving in the United States alone; to support Presbyterian congregations and mid councils as they minister to these children; and to help with advocacy issues related to this crisis. DR000095—Refugee Emergencies.

Act. 

• Learn more: Read the Stated Clerk's statement to the church about Unaccompanied Children and the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) resource on unaccompanied children.
• Like us on Facebook to stay informed of additional information
• Advocate through the Office of Public Witness

Pray.  That the grace and love of Christ will cover the frightened children being held in detention facilities or makeshift holding centers, that they will be treated with dignity and respect, and that their safety and protection be ensured.