Children Immigrants
by Julia Hennessy
October 2024
At St. Francis Xavier Shelter, we primarily receive families, with kids of all ages. Being surrounded by these children has made it apparent how they handle stress and anxiety differently from the adults. When working with these children, it is important to acknowledge the complex challenges they face before coming to the shelter. Their journey to the United States is often treacherous, with both physical, emotional, and psychological trauma. They deal with the feelings of fear, uncertainty, and loss as they leave their home countries. This trauma can appear in various ways, such as anxiety, depression, and difficulty adjusting to the new environment. While they can’t fully understand the scope of their situation, they are cognizant of the instability and vulnerability of their circumstance. Our goal is to give them a space where they not only have all their basic needs met, but play as a distraction while they are under our care.
One particular family who was with us last week, expressed their heartfelt gratitude as they prepared to leave. They told us they would never forget our kindness and that we would always be in their hearts. With tears in their eyes, they promised to pray for us during their next chapter. When they asked how they could thank us, we encouraged them to help others in their life just as we had helped them. We advised the children to try their best in school, study hard, and strive to make a difference in the world. This moment truly highlights the lengths these parents are willing to go, taking risks to come to the United States in search of a better future for their families.
As we celebrate three years since the opening of the shelter, it is a great opportunity to reflect on the positive changes we have been able to create in these families as well as examine how that change can be multiplied by each migrant upon leaving the shelter.
