In a recent move to further the protection of unaccompanied noncitizen children, Bishop Mark J. Seitz of El Paso, Chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Migration, has sent a letter to Congress outlining a set of action measures.
The recommendations, developed by the USCCB’s Department of Migration and Refugee Services (MRS), underscore the need to prevent human trafficking and other exploitative situations for children after they are released to a sponsor in the United States by the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR).
Addressing this focus, Bishop Seitz wrote in his letter: “While we are also deeply committed to the well-being of these children prior to and during their time in federal custody, including steps taken by ORR to ensure safe sponsor placements, the scope of these recommendations reflects the reality that exploitation is most likely to occur when children lack access to support and become isolated from their local communities.”
Bishop Seitz emphasized the vulnerability of unaccompanied children among migrants and highlighted the existing partnership between MRS and the federal government. This collaboration provides home studies and post-release services, foster care, and small-scale shelters to noncitizen children in need.
The bishop further explained: “These programs are specifically designed to promote the safety, well-being, and best interests of those served, while also integrating our unwavering commitment to abolishing the evil of human trafficking.”
The full text of Bishop Seitz’s letter, including the recommendations, is available for public viewing on the USCCB website.
In addition, more information regarding the Catholic Church’s ministries serving migrants and refugees can be found at usccb.org/migrationministries. These resources shed light on the Church’s extensive work in assisting and advocating for the rights and welfare of migrants, refugees, and noncitizen children.
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