Sketch by Marc Nelson

Thanks to your advocacy and donations, Miguelito* was released to his aunt, who was eager to take him home for months.

His aunt did everything asked of her to take Miguelito into her home: submitted all documents. Requested fingerprinting. 

Not only did she receive escalating demands in return, her case manager wrongfully claimed that the the aunt had withdrawn her application to sponsor Miguelito and refused to be fingerprinted. 

During this process, we were in touch with Miguelito’s aunt and mother. They were both deeply distressed by the trail of false information and the devastating impact on Miguelito. Without a sponsor, Miguelito could have been deported on his own. At the age of 7. For no reason. 

We worked with the Flores counsel to bring this directly in front of Judge Dolly Gee as yet another instance where unnecessary delays in release are being imposed on a young child.

Today, we take solace knowing this 7-year-old boy can grow up in a loving home. He was never a security threat. He did not deserve to be treated as one when he came here requesting asylum.

We believe that a humane society is one that embraces children who are fleeing for their safety. Together, we can end the lifelong trauma caused by our country’s cruel immigration policies. Together, we can help these children and families in need. We are here for them. Each Step Home

* We use pseudonyms and likenesses of similar children, not portraits. We avidly protect the identities of the children and families we assist.