Almost 1500 children who arrived unaccompanied in the United States are now housed at the San Diego Convention Center. Initially there were more than 900 teenage girls, but now some younger boys and girls with ages of 5 to 12 are sheltered there with siblings being kept together. The goal of the convention center efforts is to find temporary homes for the children with family or sponsors, and then additional children will be brought to San Diego. The operation of the convention center shelter is planned to continue through July 15. These children were brought to San Diego because we were considered to be a community that would provide proper care for them.
We are looking at ways that our church can help with the care of these children. There has been wide spread support from the San Diego community with much love and care being provided by several organizations. South Bay Community Services (sbcssandiego.org) was selected as the lead organization for social services. They are accepting donations and applications for volunteers. San Diego churches have been contacted to provide a spiritual presence for the children.With many of their needs being met while at the convention center, consideration must also be given to support for the children as they move to their temporary homes.
The most likely way (in this time of the pandemic) that we can provide the greatest support is through monetary donations. Our committee is seeking to determine the best organizations that can make efficient use of funds to help these migrant children as part of our mission to serve the community. There will be more information shortly. We will also be considering the collection of items needed by the children. If you wish to have a role in this mission or you can provide suggestions for our effort, please contact Stan Johnson through the Church office.
Missions & Social Concerns Committee: Roger Wiggans, Laurie Rahe,d Karyn Moore, Mark Maddox, Will & Raquel Hakes Weston-Dawkes, Chee Chow, Beau Brandon, and Stan Johnson.