ICE detention drives US migrant families to create emergency plans

ICE detention migrant families emergency plan CBP One Laura Cholula

In the United States, migrant families are preparing emergency plans in anticipation of possible ICE raids. A study by The Marshall Project and MS NOW found that by June 2026 at least 500 babies and young children had been detained, and by April 2026 more than 60,000 people were held in ICE custody. Of those currently detained, 70.8% have no criminal record.

The Department of Homeland Security has promoted a voluntary departure program, encouraging parents to use the CBP One™ app to receive $2,600 and a free flight. Immigration‑rights lawyer Laura Cholula advises families to keep identification, tax documents, immigration case files, bank information and powers of attorney together, memorize several trusted phone numbers, and download pro‑immigrant apps that can alert contacts during a detention. Volunteer groups such as the “Güeras Aliadas,” a network of over 40 volunteers, assist families in locating detained relatives and maintaining communication.

These efforts aim to help families protect their children and navigate the legal complexities of ICE enforcement while awaiting resolution of their cases.

Sources

Antes de que ICE toque la puerta, muchas familias migrantes ya ensayan qué hacer con sus hijos [abc17news.com]

4 days ago

Antes de que ICE toque la puerta, muchas familias migrantes ya ensayan qué hacer con sus hijos [kvia.com]

4 days ago