The Trump administration has begun offering $2,500 payments to unaccompanied migrant children aged 14 and older who voluntarily agree to return to their home countries. The Department of Health and Human Services gave shelters only four hours to confirm receipt of the proposal, while children received 24 hours to decide whether to accept the resettlement support. Emily Covington from ICE stated the payment would be distributed after an immigration judge approves the request, and the minor arrives in their country of origin. The program initially targeted 17-year-olds before expanding from a similar $1,000 initiative offered to adult migrants earlier this year.
Child welfare advocates have condemned the policy as coercive. Neha Desai from the National Center for Youth Law argued the government lacks legitimate grounds to incentivize children with financial payments. Critics contend the offer exploits vulnerable youth fleeing dangerous situations. A federal judge recently blocked attempts to defund legal services for these minors, which the Acacia Center for Justice described as essential protection.
Child welfare advocates have condemned the policy as coercive. Neha Desai from the National Center for Youth Law argued the government lacks legitimate grounds to incentivize children with financial payments. Critics contend the offer exploits vulnerable youth fleeing dangerous situations. A federal judge recently blocked attempts to defund legal services for these minors, which the Acacia Center for Justice described as essential protection.
