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Home study and post-release services for unaccompanied children

We provide these services through a direct grant with the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) and subcontracts with Global Refuge (formerly Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services and United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB).

Home study and post-release services for unaccompanied children

We provide these services through a direct grant with the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) and subcontracts with Global Refuge (formerly Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services and United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB).

What is the goal of these programs?

Children around the world have fled their homes, seeking refuge and a safe, comforting place to heal in the U.S. Unaccompanied children are youth under 18 years old who have crossed the U.S. border, often without an accompanying parent or legal guardian. They seek refuge, shelter, education, and a chance to thrive.

Bethany’s goal is to keep kids safe by reuniting them with a loved one in the U.S. and helping them adjust to their new home. Children most often reunite with family members or a family friend who is identified as their sponsor and can provide them with a stable home.

We offer these services to unaccompanied children across the U.S. and in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

What is a home study?

Before reuniting a child with an adult family member or caretaker, called a sponsor, a case manager must conduct a home study. The purpose of the home study is to ensure the sponsor can safely and properly care for the unaccompanied child’s physical and mental well-being.

Ongoing post-release services

After the child arrives with their sponsor, the case manager continues to check in with the family to offer support. We provide referrals to community resources, including education, legal services, medical and mental health services, and more.

Both the child and the adult sponsor(s) have access to the case manager for any questions or necessary interventions.

If you have questions or need a resource, please reach out!