Mission
The mission of CICW is to improve programs and policies related to immigrant children and families involved in the public child welfare system.
Position Statement
CICW believes that child welfare services should be available to all children, regardless of their immigration status or the status of their parents. Immigrant children and children from immigrant families who are involved in the child welfare system should be afforded services that will address their needs for safety, permanency, and well-being.
Professionals serving this vulnerable population should be informed about cultural considerations, immigration policies, and best practices. Child welfare agencies need to address the unique barriers that affect immigrant children’s and families’ abilities and rights to access services. Agency actions should also address other social issues that impact immigrant families in unique ways, including domestic violence; child abandonment and exploitation; housing, food, and medical services availability; and availability of culturally and linguistically relevant services.
CICW also advocates for humane policies and protections for children and families impacted by immigration investigations, arrests, and detention. The effects of separating families need to be considered in planning and providing services to families with mixed immigration statuses.