A Statement from Bethany Christian Services on the Recent Presidential Executive Orders Impacting Children and Families
January 28, 2025
Over the past two weeks, the White House has released a series of presidential actions and orders concerning immigration and refugee resettlement programs and other federal financial assistance programs.
We affirm our government’s role and responsibility in ensuring that public safety and national security are paramount as they vet and screen those considered for resettlement in our country. While we understand and appreciate the President’s commitment to our country’s safety, the vetting process for refugees is already rigorous. Each year, thousands of families arrive in the U.S. as refugees or immigrants – some are children who arrive as unaccompanied minors, having been separated from their families overseas as they fled violence or disaster. Providing protection to those seeking safety is one of our nation’s proudest and longest standing traditions.
The temporary suspension of refugee resettlement efforts will cause significant impact to vulnerable men, women, and children legally seeking safety and hope in our nation.
During this season, we seek to partner with the Administration on policy changes in hopes of resuming the resettlement of refugees as quickly as possible, as well as advising on long term solutions that includes pathways to citizenship, increased resources for asylum processing, and protections for vulnerable populations.
We are living in the largest refugee crisis the world has ever experienced. In times of uncertainty, our Christian faith will serve as a source of strength and inspiration (Proverbs 3:5; John 16:33). Our faith calls us to be a beacon of hope and love, especially to our staff and clients. Bethany will continue to demonstrate the love and compassion of Jesus to refugees through exceptional programming.
Now, more than ever, we call upon Christian communities across the nation to band together and support the growing needs facing children and families. This is an opportunity to invest in charitable giving so that Bethany Christian Services can continue to provide the critical services our clients desperately need, delivered with the excellence for which Bethany is renowned. Join us as the largest Christian service provider in the country, in being a beacon of hope. Together, we can make a profound impact in the lives of those seeking refuge and support, maintaining our commitment to serving with love and compassion.
Our mission remains steadfast: to demonstrate the love and compassion of Jesus Christ by protecting children, empowering youth, and strengthening families through quality social services. We will continue to stand with refugees and work towards a future where every child and family is safe, loved and connected.