WHAT:  The Hispanic Heritage Foundation (HHF), other institutions, and individuals will hold a briefing titled State of Central American Children Fleeing Violence Crisis for the press, concerned national and local leaders, other organizations, and individuals. 

WHO: Briefing will include:        

·       Opening Remarks – Jose Antonio Tijerino, HHF

·       Testimonial from Central American Mother and Children who made the Journey

·       State of the Crisis in US – Tiffany Nelms, U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants

·       State of the Crisis in Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador – Adam Blackwell, OAS (Organization of American States)

·       Crisis at the Border by the Numbers – Ana Gonzalez, Pew Research Center

·       Meeting the Immediate Needs of Families – Sister Norma Pimentel, Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley

·       From border to States and Counties

o   State Response – Jonathan Green, Hispanic Liaison for Gov. Martin O’Malley (MD)

• County Response – Montgomery County Councilmember Nancy Navarro
• Health response – Dr. Christian Cornejo, Mary’s Center
• Legal response – Aryah Somers, Consultant
• Family Unification and Trauma – Luis Cardona, (HHS) Health and Human Services
• Education – Harlyn Pacheco, Qlovi Education

·       Special Guest Remarks

WHEN:   Thursday, August 14, 12-2 p.m.

WHERE: National Press Club

The State of Central American Children Fleeing Violence Crisis briefing is part of HHF’s READ (Refugee Enrichment And Development) Project which is non-political, non-partisan, and non-immigration-reform related but focused providing hope, emotional outlets, and education to the children through reading, playing and praying. Visit www.HispanicHeritage.org for info on HHF.