Thousands of displaced children enter the United States each year from Latin American countries, traveling thousands of miles without a parent or guardian. They are fleeing from areas of extreme poverty, violence, drug-related gang activity, sexual exploitation and trafficking. Upon arrival, they are detained, and according to immigration law, must be placed with a federally funded agency that will provide short-term care while they transition to placement with family or other sponsors.

Cayuga Centers offers the least restrictive form of placement to this special population. Children are matched to bilingual foster parents who are familiar with the language and culture of their foster children. These children are placed in homes rather than a congregate facility, and those from the same family can stay together in a supportive and safe home. Foster parents are trained to work with these children and to support the treatment team in meeting the child’s needs. What they offer immediately is a safe haven after a very long journey.