CHICAGO - Approximately 75 children, unaccompanied minors fleeing poverty, hunger and violence from their homelands in Central America, will be arriving in Illinois from Florida following their emergency evacuation to escape the destruction of Hurricane Matthew.
The group, Heartland Alliance, says the youngsters will be staying in Illinois for the next 30 days, until they can return to Florida.
Governor Bruce Rauner released a statement thanking the agency for their services.
“We are grateful that the state of Illinois, through the hard work of Heartland Alliance, can offer these young children a temporary, safe home. It is important that in a time of crisis we all remember to offer a helping hand,” Governor Rauner said. “Our thoughts are with those in the storm’s path. We are hoping for as little destruction as possible and are evaluating every way Illinois can further help our fellow states.”
The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services granted Heartland Alliance a temporary variance to provide shelter for the minors.
“This is a great opportunity for Illinois to help in a time of crisis in the lives of children,” said Illinois Department of Children and Family Services Director George Sheldon. “These children are seeking refuge in this country out of desperation to leave behind the dangerous conditions they faced in Central America, so we are grateful that Heartland Alliance has stepped forward to provide temporary space for them until they can safely return to Florida.”
