As of July 31, 2026, Catholic Community Services of Utah is no longer receiving federal funding to provide legal representation for unaccompanied immigrant children. While the federal contract has ended, our commitment to the children we serve has not.
For more than 10 years, CCS has represented unaccompanied immigrant children after they were released from federal immigration custody into Utah. Today, our attorneys represent more than 140 children who have active immigration cases. Some are placed through our Refugee Foster Care program, while others live with relatives who cannot afford private legal representation.
This change in funding impacts not only youth in Utah. Thousands of children across the country are at risk of losing the legal representation they need.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Immigration proceedings are incredibly complex, especially for children. Unlike many other court systems, Immigration Court does not appoint attorneys for children who cannot afford one.
Many of the children represented by CCS have viable pathways to lawful immigration status, but the process often takes years due to visa backlogs and processing delays. Throughout that time, they rely on experienced legal counsel to protect their rights and guide them through every step of the process.
"Every child deserves the opportunity to understand the legal process and have meaningful access to justice," said Aden Batar, Director of Migration and Refugee Services at Catholic Community Services of Utah. "Without legal representation, many will face significant challenges simply understanding their rights and responsibilities before the court."
Our Commitment Continues
CCS remains committed to standing with these vulnerable children, but continuing this work will now depend on philanthropic and community support.
We are seeking support from foundations, businesses, community partners, faith communities, and individual donors to help ensure that every child continues to have access to qualified legal representation.
Together, we can help ensure these children are not left to navigate the immigration system alone.
For more information or to discuss partnership opportunities, please contact:
Aden Batar, Director of Migration and Refugee Services, at
