During a recent government meeting, concerns were raised regarding the follow-up procedures for unaccompanied minors placed with sponsors. A congressman questioned the effectiveness of the current system after attempts to contact sponsors or children go unanswered. He expressed alarm over the lack of action taken after three unsuccessful phone calls, emphasizing that as parents, they would be deeply concerned if they could not reach their children.

The Secretary responded by acknowledging the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of these children, stating that their responsibility is to provide care while the minors are in custody. However, the congressman pressed further, suggesting that the current approach appears inadequate, as it seems to lack a robust follow-up mechanism once children are placed with sponsors.

The discussion highlighted a significant gap in the oversight of the unaccompanied children program, with critics pointing to a perceived decline in rigorous vetting processes. This exchange underscores ongoing concerns about the welfare of vulnerable children in the system and the need for improved accountability and follow-up measures to ensure their safety after placement.