Wellspring’s Statement on Protecting Immigrant Children

Wellspring’s mission is to build emotionally healthy, self-sufficient families and a nonviolent community in which they can thrive.  We achieve our mission through the effective provision of social and mental health services that help strengthen families, addressing a broad range of issues that can negatively affect their lives.

In light of the recent immigration-focused Executive Orders signed by President Donald Trump, Wellspring stands beside the similarly non-partisan and pro-children American Academy of Pediatrics in the belief that these Executive Orders are harmful to families and children. We reiterate the AAP’s stance that many of the children and families that will be most affected by these policies are already fleeing from extraordinary trauma.

We reiterate the sentiment of the AAP that no child should live in fear. These policies brought forth from the highest levels of our government send a message that they are our enemies and exasperate the fear, anxiety, and toxic stress that many already struggle with. We know that when children are exposed to prolonged toxic stress it can negatively impact health and development. We urge our elected officials and our community to stand-up to ensure that children and families fleeing violence can feel safe here. Wellspring supports the immigrant families we serve and will continue to advocate for and advance the cause of their health and safety.