These resources are for those assisting immigrant and refugee families who are caring for non-biological children (such as grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, siblings, or friends). Overseas, these children are typically referred to as “separated children,” while in the U.S. Refugee Program, they are typically referred to as “attached refugee minors.” In the U.S. legal and child welfare fields, these caregivers are often referred to as “relative caregivers” or families with “kinship care” arrangements. For further basic information on guardianship and refugees, please see:
- Guardianship Fact Sheet for Staff Assisting Refugee Families
- Legal Guardianship for Refugee Children Living in the U.S. with Relatives
- List of Highlighted Resources on Guardianship
Establishing guardianship (or in some states, custody) is recommended when a refugee family is caring for non-biological children under 18.