On January 20, 2025, the Trump administration issued guidance through the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that rescinded a 2021 guidance prohibiting immigration enforcement agencies from impeding access to essential services by designating “protected areas,” such as shelters, schools, and hospitals. Many of these protections were first established in 2011 and 2013 by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) respectively.
Youth experiencing homelessness are uniquely vulnerable to immigration enforcement regardless of their citizenship status. Without vital documents like IDs, birth certificates, or proof of residency, they are often at greater risk of detention and deportation.
Places that are no longer protected include:
- Crisis and/or drop-in centers
- Homeless shelters
- Domestic violence shelters and/or victims’ services centers
- Food banks and/or pantries
- Community-based organizations
- Schools (including preschools, K-12 schools, and higher education institutions)
- Healthcare facilities (including Community Health Clinics)
- Places of worship
- Places where children gather (including playgrounds, child care centers, or group homes for children)
- Disaster/emergency response sites
This list also includes areas “near” these places, such as sidewalks, entrances, and parking lots.
We have collected information and resources helpful for youth experiencing homelessness and those that provide services and supports. If you know of a resource that would be helpful to our community, please contact Kaila Craw at kaila.craw@nn4youth.org.
Resources and Materials
- ICE Raid Guidance for Homeless Service Providers | National Homelessness Law Center and Crowell & Moring LLP
- Factsheet: Trump’s Rescission of Protected Areas Policies Undermines Safety for All | National Immigration Law Center (includes recommendations for social services organizations)
- Protect Immigrant Children & Youth: Resources for Youth, Families, and Educators | SchoolHouse Connection
- Free and Low-Cost National Immigration Legal Services Directory | Immigration Advocates Network
- Immigrant Youth and Family Resources | Legal Counsel for Youth and Children
- Know Your Rights Toolkit | Immigrant Legal Resources Center
National Network for Youth will continue the fight to end all youth homelessness. We will continue to provide updates to our community.
