Family Reunification Monthly Update
August 2020
Monthly Report

The monthly report for August is due by September 9th.
Previous Monthly Updates

June 2020
July 2020

Quarterly Network Call

The recording for 6th Quarter network call can be accessed here.

The next network call is scheduled for Wednesday, November 4th
2 -3:30 PM EST
USCCB Closings

September 7th - Labor Day
October 12th - Columbus Day

Save the Date - FR Convening

The Family Reunification team is looking to host a virtual 1-2 day FR Convening the week of December 7th, 2020. As we continue planning for the event, we would like your input. Please complete the poll to the right indicating whether you would prefer a two day/three hour convening or one that would last a full day (approximately 9 AM - 4 PM).
Which FR Convening schedule would you prefer?
1 Day (approximately 9 AM - 4 PM)
2 Day (approximately three hours each day)
POM Review/Feedback
As mentioned during the last network call and in the email sent on August 14th, the FR team is requesting that each budgeted site collectively review the current version of the POM and provide feedback using this survey link. Only one survey should be completed for each site, but does not have to be completed in one sitting. The key is to have the same program staff login to the survey using the same device each time.

USCCB Program Updates
  • Email Signatures - As most of us continue to work remotely, please ensure that your email signatures include a number where you can be reached when you are not in the office.
  • Updated NOC Template - The NOC template has been updated to reflect our new ORR Project Officer (PO), Michelle Sheedy. Please use this updated template moving forward.
  • MRIS Issues - Some program staff reported recent issues with MRIS. Please note that MRIS is most compatible with Internet Explorer, and may not function properly with other browsers. Additionally, you need to ensure that your compatibility view settings are configured to include the website. Please contact your CSS is the issue persists.
Reminders

  • 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.
  • Please remember to change your UAC Portal password when prompted via email. Failure to do so within the time indicated will result in suspension of your Portal account.
Training

*Training Tracker - An updated training tracker is being developed to include the new mandated trauma and UAC Portal training requirements. Until then, please continue to use this version of the tracker which includes instructions and an example for your convenience.
Resources/News
  • BRYCS - Bridging Refugee Youth & Children's Services
  • COVID-19 Rapid Response Fund - Millions of immigrants are working on the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis, risking their health and well-being every day to keep our society going. And yet, many immigrants were left out of the CARES Act relief. The COVID-19 Rapid Response Fund is providing financial support to immigrant families who have been left out of the federal government's relief efforts. Immigrants may be eligible to receive a $500 grant to help cover whatever is most pressing in their lives.
  • Immigrant Connections - Online Professional Development
  • FREE Virtual Dance Classes - FATE Foundation provides free virtual dance classes to low income families with children ages 5 and up. These classes offer an opportunity for kids to stay active even when they are unable to leave their homes. Low activity is proven to produce stress, depression and anxiety in kids and the pandemic makes activity even more difficult. Learn more!
  • Working with Immigrant Families - It is important that child welfare agencies understand and respond to the unique needs of immigrant families so that all families receive positive outcomes. The California Evidence-based Clearinghouse provides information on how your agency can work effectively with immigrant families
  • USCCB/MRS, CLINIC, and CCUSA staff created a PowerPoint to highlight the most relevant information impacting the migrant community for the month of August.
Kudos
Catholic Charities Archdiocese of Boston (CCAB) - Over the last several months, CCAB created new ways to get out into the field and support Safe Passages families, while still maintaining health and safety precautions. In partnership with Catholic Charities of Boston-Yawkey Center Food Pantry, CCAB staff has dropped off bags of groceries on multiple occasions to 10 Safe Passages families throughout the Greater Boston area. With the help of generous volunteers, the Safe Passages program has also provided at least $3,550 in grocery store gift cards to 16 families. Finally, in partnership with a local non-profit in Lynn, MA, they dropped off “summer fun buckets” to 5 children. These buckets included things like beach balls, bubbles, jump ropes, books, snacks, and more! Kudos to CCAB Safe Passages program staff for your hard work, dedication, and adaptability during these times!!!