Lutheran Social Services of New York Serves and Protects Unaccompanied and Separated Children
NEW YORK – June 27, 2018 Since its inception in 1886, Lutheran Social Services of New York has advocated for the safety and well-being of all children. Having first begun as an orphanage and now as a multi-service, social service organization and licensed foster care agency, Lutheran Social Services of New York is a steadfast advocate for the rights of all children, regardless of gender, religion, race, nationality or immigration status.
For years, LSSNY has provided shelter and temporary foster care services to children who arrive in the United States without a parent or guardian. This unique understanding and expertise has been instrumental in serving children who have suffered psychological trauma, including those who have been recently separated. “It is at the very core of LSSNY’s mission to preserve and unite families. We work to ensure that children are reunited with their families, quickly and safely,” stated Damyn Kelly, LSSNY President and CEO.
LSSNY provides comprehensive care for children who are in our care while waiting to be reunified with a suitable sponsor, such as a verified family member or a close friend with a direct relationship to the child.
The unaccompanied children in our care live in a group home or temporary foster care placements that are in a home-like setting, and receive high-quality, trauma-informed and culturally-sensitive services, including mental and medical health care services, case management, bilingual education in all main subjects, socialization and recreational activities. Children are also provided individual and group counseling by mental health professionals.
In addition, our Immigration Legal Services Program provides free or low-cost direct legal immigration services to under-served populations in the New York City metropolitan area. LSSNY represents and counsels individuals and families seeking immigration relief, including asylum, family-based immigration status and citizenship.
“As a faith-based provider, it is because of our Christian tradition that we remain committed to serving the most vulnerable among us with compassion, dignity and respect,” said Kelly. “And it is through our caring staff, volunteers and foster parents that we continue to serve as an example of Christ’s love in action.”