There are growing numbers of immigrant children in Connecticut. Most are from Central America and South America, but children also arrive from Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East and the Caribbean.
A forgotten population, these students are under the radar of educators. They have very few advocates to draw attention to their needs.
Many children have significant trauma related to arrival in the United States. They fled abuse and neglect and live in constant fear of being returned to life-threatening conditions. Many arrive here alone, without a parent or guardian. English is not their primary language. Education is hampered by trauma and inconsistent schooling.
The Center for Children’s Advocacy created Project LLEGAR to help at-risk children avoid deportation to a dangerous environment, and help traumatized children get the educational support they need to learn English and succeed in school.
“Project LLEGAR fills an enormous need for new immigrant children arriving in Connecticut. Without Center for Children’s Advocacy attorney Edwin Colon, these children would slip through the cracks. His expertise helps hundreds of at-risk children, educates Connecticut attorneys and guides the state in supports for children who desperately need help to find safety, security and educational success.”
- Claudia Connor, President and CEO, International Institute of Connecticut