A generation of kids suffers as Trump destabilizes immigrant families
September 9, 2026 / 5:00 AM EDT / KFF Health News
TL;DR
- Immigration enforcement actions, including parental detentions and deportations, have separated an estimated 205,000 children from their parents, leading to psychological distress and health problems.
- Children from immigrant backgrounds experience increased emotional distress, bullying, and anxiety due to fear of federal enforcement and racial profiling, even if they are citizens or legal residents.
- Rollbacks in federal and state benefits and new 'public charge' rules are limiting immigrants' access to medical care, food assistance, and other supports, impacting millions of U.S. citizen children.
- The fear of deportation leads parents to avoid essential activities like taking children to school or the doctor, and some children are left to care for themselves or their siblings.
- While some communities and organizations are stepping up to support affected families, advocates stress the need for more humane immigration policies and enforcement tactics to mitigate the harm to children.