Famille Elah

Famille Elah, a Guardianship Program for Unaccompanied Minors Crossing the Border

An Overview of the Program

Famille Elah is a unique guardianship program in the United States that provides care and support to unaccompanied minors crossing the border. Sponsored by the Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS), the program aims to ensure the well-being and safety of these vulnerable children while they navigate the legal and social complexities of their situation. Through a network of volunteer host families, foster care placements, and specialized services, Famille Elah offers a comprehensive approach to supporting these young individuals.

Services Provided by Famille Elah

Legal Assistance and Case Management

Famille Elah provides legal assistance to unaccompanied minors, including representation in immigration court and advocacy for their rights. The program also offers comprehensive case management services, helping children connect with social services, medical care, and educational resources.

Trauma-Informed Care

Unaccompanied minors often experience significant trauma during their journeys and time in detention. Famille Elah recognizes the importance of trauma-informed care and provides individualized support to help children process their experiences and heal. This includes counseling, therapy, and other mental health services.

Educational and Vocational Support

Education is a vital part of supporting unaccompanied minors as they integrate into American society. Famille Elah works to ensure children have access to quality education, including enrollment in schools and support for higher education or vocational training.

The Importance of Guardianship

Guardianship is a legal arrangement that provides adults with the authority to care for and make decisions on behalf of a minor child. For unaccompanied minors crossing the border, guardianship is essential for ensuring their safety, well-being, and access to necessary services. Famille Elah recruits and trains volunteer host families who provide a stable and loving home environment for children while their legal status is being determined.

The Host Family Experience

Host families play a crucial role in the success of Famille Elah. They provide a supportive and nurturing home for children, helping them to feel safe, loved, and connected to their new community. Host families receive ongoing training and support from LIRS and are committed to creating a positive and enriching experience for the children they care for.

How to Get Involved

Individuals interested in supporting Famille Elah can get involved in several ways. They can volunteer to become host families, provide financial support, or advocate for policies that support unaccompanied minors. LIRS also offers opportunities for volunteers to support the program's legal services, case management, and educational efforts.

Conclusion

Famille Elah is a vital program that provides support and care to unaccompanied minors crossing the border. Through its comprehensive services and dedicated host families, the program helps these vulnerable children navigate the legal and social complexities of their situation while ensuring their well-being and safety.