Honduras is one of Latin America’s poorest countries. It also has the highest murder rate in the world. It's easy to see why Gloria would risk her life to leave such a place.
Seeking a New Life
Gloria made the perilous journey to the United States (U.S.) from Honduras at the age of 16 with her infant son. She was fleeing the violence and gangs that permeated her life.
After arriving in the U.S., Gloria and her son were accepted into the unaccompanied minor program (UMP) at Catholic Charities. The UMP helps children that come to the U.S. without their parents. For Gloria, the UMP helped her on a path of safety and hope.
Unaccompanied Minor Foster Care
Gloria was placed with a foster family, enrolled in school and began to learn English and catch up on her education. Since Gloria was a mother, she also started learning parenting skills to better care for her son.
Now, at age 19, Gloria speaks fluent English. Her hard work as paid off, she was accepted to a certified nursing assistant program and is determined to make a future for her family. “My son is my priority—but getting an education is very important to me,” said Gloria.
She is also grateful for everyone who has helped her along the way. “I am very thankful for my foster parents,” says Gloria. Although there was no official adoption they all consider themselves family. Gloria and her son participate in all family activities, including a trip to Disneyland last year. Gloria’s son even calls her foster parents, Grandma and Grandpa.
Gloria’s foster family and case manager are helping her master independent living skills so she will be able to live on her own when she is ready.
Hope and a Future
Gloria and her son now have many things they never had in Honduras—they have hope for a bright future and a family that will love them forever.
Learn more about how you can support UMP foster care families to better care for these special children starting their lives over in a new country.
