USCCB Program Updates
Virtual Home Studies
Home Study Referrals
- USCCB will continue to accept HS referrals, but will initially ask ORR for an extension. However, if ORR request that a virtual visit be conducted, then we will proceed accordingly. Please note that if you receive a new HS referral, your assign CSS will make the initial contact with the shelter to avoid any miscommunication. Contact your assigned CSS if you have any questions.
Consent/Agency Forms
-
One of our FR providers created a temporary consent form to use during this era of virtual visits. The form, created using Google Forms, is sent to the sponsor via email or text message prior to and explained during the virtual visit. Electronic signatures are collected from sponsors, in lieu of hard copy forms/signatures, as many sponsors do not use email or have access to print/scan/return the forms via email/mail.
The forms can be created using any survey platform (not just Google
Forms) and can also be used to obtain signatures for any agency forms that
are usually signed during the initial visit. Providers
must
ensure that the
information they are collecting does not include any PII or sensitive
information. If providers have the capacity, agency forms can be copied
and pasted into the survey question, while some platforms allow for the
file to be uploaded.
Below are
examples
of how programs can create ways to have sponsors
and/or children temporarily view and “sign” consent and agency forms
electronically in lieu of a hard copy, using Qualtrics and Microsoft Forms
(included in Microsoft office):
- This following consent form was created using Qualtrics
- The following agency forms were created using Microsoft Forms
Feel free to use the form examples above to create
ones specific to your agency. Please note that you do not need to purchase special survey platforms or create new accounts, as this is only a
temporary fix due to the current COVID-19 situation.
Family Separation
- Please continue to track/report family separation cases using
this
guidance.
Migration Protection Protocols
- Please continue to track/report
Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP)
(also known as “Remain in Mexico”). Additional information on the MPP can be found
here
. Please review and complete the information indicated
here
for all cases in which a child reports being impacted in any capacity by MPP.
