AMMPARO Migrant Children

“Dios es nuestro amparo y fortaleza,” (“God is our refuge and strength,”) – Psalm 46:1

AMMPARO is a holistic, whole church commitment by the ELCA, as a church in the world, to accompany children today and in the future.

The word “amparo” in Spanish means the protection of a living creature from suffering or damage. The ELCA’s strategy to Accompanying Migrant Minors with Protection, Advocacy, Representation and Opportunities (AMMPARO) was envisioned after witnessing the plight of children who are forced to flee their communities because of complex and interrelated reasons, including chronic violence, poverty, environmental displacement and lack of opportunities in El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala. Due to our connection to companion churches in the region, including companion synod relationships, and existing ministries in the U.S., the ELCA is well-positioned to help ensure that these vulnerable children are protected. 

In a holistic, whole church response that connects international and US outcomes, the ELCA has developed this strategy based on the following commitments:

• Uphold and guarantee basic human rights and safety of migrant children and their families;
• Address the root causes of migration in countries from Central America’s Northern Triangle and Mexico and the treatment of migrants in transit;
• Work toward just and humane policies affecting migrants in and outside the U.S.; and
• Engage as a church body with all of its companions, affiliates and partners to respond to the migration situation and its causes and to advocate for migrant children and their families. 

As brothers and sisters in Christ, the ELCA is called to bear witness to the conditions affecting so many communities and to work to find solutions that will acknowledge the humanity in all of God’s children. Join us in making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families.

Get involved 

Pray for the safety of migrant children and families on the journey and for justice as they reach their destinations.

Become a Welcoming Congregation to accompany these children and families through their transition to life in the U.S. Link to resource. www.elca.org/Resources/AMMPARO

Advocate for justice for migrant children and families. www.elca.org/Advocacy

Accompany migrant children and families through the Guardian Angel Program as the physical presence of the church in the courtroom. https://Vimeo.com/157458987

Give to AMMPARO to provide opportunities for children and families in Central America and in the U.S. https://community.elca.org/ammparo-donation-form

New program for youth: Bridging Youth to Youth