PRESS RELEASE – LIRS Network Provides Support for Reunified Families
For Immediate Release:
July 11, 2018
MEDIA CONTACT:
Danielle Bernard
dbernard@lirs.org; 410-230-2888
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Over the last few months, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS) has been at the heart of the family separation crisis; and now, as the government works to comply with the court ordered reunification of children with their parents within 30 days, we remain on the front lines offering vital services to these vulnerable families.
Working through our network of local partners, LIRS is making sure that, once reunited, these families and children have immediate access to basic necessities and a safe place to stay.
“Having just endured the trauma of separation, these young children and parents will be met by LIRS network partners with decades of experience in child welfare,” said Kay Bellor, Vice President of Programs at LIRS. “These experts will work with each family to provide a sense of stability and comfort as they transition out of a difficult situation.”
Thanks to the outpouring of private donations LIRS has received, in addition to meeting the immediate needs of the families who are reunited, we will also be providing them with transportation to the communities they were trying to reach when they crossed the border.
Once settled, LIRS will make sure that families have referrals to legal services, mental health counseling, and other resources vital to child development.
“We are grateful for the support that has allowed us to continue our work in supporting these families as they recover from a devastating period of separation,” said Bellor.
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Founded in 1939, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service is one of the largest refugee resettlement agencies in the United States. It is nationally recognized for its leadership advocating with refugees, asylum seekers, unaccompanied children, immigrants in detention, families fractured by migration and other vulnerable populations. Through nearly 80 years of service and advocacy, LIRS has helped over 500,000 migrants and refugees rebuild their lives in America.