I have tears in my eyes and I am filled with support for the compassionate caring couple providing a home for the children whose parents have been detained by immigration officials, (“Immigration officials took their parents. Why this Portland couple gave 4 kids a new home,” Sept. 13).
They opened their home to their friends’ children, without asking for help from state or local governments. As an Oregonian, I think we all have more responsibility to support this family.
The only Department of Human Services employee interviewed for the article said the law only requires government to contact a parent or guardian if abuse is reported. In this case, the children’s parents were forced by our federal immigration authorities to be separated from their children.
Our state must step forward to provide financial and emotional support for children in this situation and the families caring for them. This may not fit into Oregon’s foster care system, but our state has never been afraid to innovate.
Minimal assistance includes health care coverage through the Oregon Health Plan and food support, along with other needs. Outreach to find similar families is important and must include privacy protection.
Our sanctuary efforts must include the support of children left behind and their caregivers.
Sherry Willmschen, Portland