The increase in the use of immigration detention, the elimination of removal priorities, and the uncertainty surrounding Temporary Protected Status and DACA have caused confusion and uncertainty for immigrant families. In response to these changes, the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland created the Parish Companion Program. Drawing from the diocesan Welcoming the Stranger initiative, the Parish Companion Program trains community members to serve as “companions” for different scenarios they could encounter when accompanying families facing deportation. It also offers an opportunity to meet people from other church communities who care about similar immigration issues and understand the reality facing undocumented families. Join a multi-disciplinary team from the Diocese of Cleveland to explore the Parish Companion Program and how to replicate this program in your agency, community, or parish.

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