Immigrant families are an important part of Vermont’s communities. Unfortunately, during this time, many immigrant families are facing challenges with housing, work, school, health care, and legal questions. It can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone. At Building Bright Futures (BBF), we believe that every child living in Vermont should have a strong start and a bright future, allowing them to grow up healthy and safe and ready to learn. As Vermont becomes home to more immigrants and refugee families, it is essential that we work together to ensure these families feel safe, welcome, and supported in every early childhood setting.
The United States has nearly 5 million children under age 6 who have at least one immigrant parent. While most of these children are U.S. citizens, many live in mixed-status families. In Vermont, immigrant families contribute to our communities in countless ways, yet they often face barriers to accessing early childhood education, health care, and legal support. Early childhood programs are a trusted space for families. Programs are welcoming and inclusive, which helps children feel safe and ready to learn. But when families are in fear of deportation, discrimination, or even being separated, children’s well-being can be deeply affected.
Here are some organizations across the state that are ready to help.
Community and Family Support
USCRI Vermont has been welcoming newcomers since 1980. They help families with housing, health care, education, and jobs, and connect people to community support.
Vermont Libraries – New Americans Services offer English classes, citizenship study guides, cultural programs, and resources for children and families.
The Vermont Language Justice Project makes sure important information is available in many languages, so families can understand their rights and services.
Legal Rights and Protections
The ACLU provides clear guides on what to do if you are stopped by police, ICE, or Border Patrol.
The City of Burlington connects residents to legal aid, immigrant support groups, and know-your-rights training.
The Vermont Asylum Assistance Project (VAAP) offers legal help for asylum seekers and has an online ICE Tracker where families can report arrests or detentions and request assistance.
For emergencies, Migrant Justice runs a response line at 802-881-7229, which may connect detained individuals to free legal defense.
Emergency Planning
If a loved one is detained, ICE maintains a searchable list of detention facilities.
Vermont Legal aid has Free Legal Help for Families. Contact Alicia Roderigue with Vermont Legal Aid to learn more about creating a family preparedness plan. You can email her at [email protected] or call/text 802-383-2219.
Tanya Lachapelle, the Family Leadership Manager at BBF, said:
“Many families are telling us that they are struggling to access services and they lack connection in their communities. Those same families tell us that finding ways to connect nourishes their families’ well-being. I am grateful for all the ways we create welcoming spaces for families. As a network, we are fostering connectedness for all Vermont families.’’
A member of BBF’s New American Women group said:
‘’Being together is healing us.’’
Overall, immigrant families are a vital part of Vermont. By working together, we can make sure every child and family feel safe, welcome, and included. We at BBF are committed to ensuring that Vermont’s early childhood system is inclusive, responsive, and equitable.
