Facts:  F is a an 11 year old native of Honduras who came to the U.S. to reunite with his mother who has been living in New York since F was 5, attempting to support her family from afar.  Though F grew up in a relatively stable environment, he did so without the presence of his father, and for the past several years without his mother. F’s father abandoned the family before he was born, and F has never met him.  He was raised by his maternal grandmother, with whom he had a good relationship, but wished to live with his mother and continue his schooling.  F came to the U.S. with his aunt and cousin, but was separated from them at the border and sheltered in New York.  He was released from the shelter in June and has reunited with his mother who lives in Orange County.

Legal assessment:  F is in removal proceedings and is eligible for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, a special visa for children who have been abused, abandoned or neglected by a parent – in this case, F’s father.  This status will allow him to remain in the U.S. with his mother and eventually be able to seek lawful permanent residence.  F needs a dedicated pro bono advocate to fight his case before two courts, the local family court and the Immigration Court.

**Note:  This case is the result of Catholic Charities' rapid response to family separation and has not gone through our comprehensive secondary intake process. A full screening and evaluation by the PBVA who accepts this case will be required.  Catholic Charities will provide expert support and mentorship throughout the life of the case, including this initial phase.