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Connecticut Compiles Toolkit For Families Worried About Immigration Action

FAIRFIELD County, Conn. -- Connecticut parents worried about being detained or deported can download a state guide on how to arrange for childcare for their kids in those instances.

Gov. Dannel Malloy has released a state issued step-by-step guide for parents to put a plan in place for the care of their children in case they are detained or deported.

Gov. Dannel Malloy has released a state issued step-by-step guide for parents to put a plan in place for the care of their children in case they are detained or deported.

Photo Credit: Jay Polansky, File

Gov. Dannel Malloy issued the step-by-step guide or "toolkit" this week. 

Developed by Malloy's office and state agencies, the downloadable kit has a Family Preparedness Plan - in English and Spanish - with information on what people can do without the help of an attorney to arrange for the childcare in the event of an immigration action.

“It is estimated that there are around 22,000 U.S. citizen children of undocumented immigrant parents living in Connecticut," Malloy said.

The kit contains forms and documents for families to fill out and store in a safe place where they can be accessed if needed and information on where to find immigration legal assistance and guidance on how to avoid immigration scams.

“We want to make sure that people have a plan in place should immigration action separate their families,” said the governor. "I strongly encourage anyone with these kinds of concerns to utilize this toolkit, fill out the forms, and have a plan in place.”

The toolkit is being electronically distributed through town governments, school districts, libraries, legal services organizations, and the United Way 2-1-1. Other groups are encouraged to download it and share it with interested parties who may find it useful.

“If even just some of the children of undocumented immigrants are forced into state care as a result of being deprived of their parents or caretakers, the emotional toll on the children will be egregious,” said Connecticut Department of Children and Families Commissioner Joette Katz.

“The most important thing for a parent to do right now is to identify whom they want to care for their children and to talk to their children to ensure them they will be taken care of well.”

Click here to download the toolkit.

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