Family Preparedness
In the event that a family member is detained or deported, families need to have a plan and key information to protect themselves and help their detained loved one.​ This section also provides a compiled list of resources for parents facing deportation and have minor children.
Many questions arise, such as, "What documents do I need to keep? Who will take care of my child(ren)? Who can I authorize to take my child to the doctor?" These sample Family Preparedness/Emergency Toolkits will allow caregivers and their children to reduce fear and anxiety by having a safety plan - regardless of emergency situation.​
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Note that these Family Preparedness Toolkits are best completed with a Patient Advocate or other health staff/volunteer.
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There is also a link for emergency financial planning support for SF residents in the "Community Resources" section below. This can be part of preparedness planning.
Family Emergency Preparedness Toolkits
Mass Legal Help →
Family Preparedness Plans in multiple languages →
English | Spanish | Portuguese | Kreyol | Arabic
Updated July 2025.
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San Francisco Immigrant & Legal Education Network (SFILEN) →
Emergency Toolkits available in multiple languages →
English | Spanish | Chinese | Arabic | Tagalog
Includes Family Planning Worksheet as well as information about immigration status and know your rights tips.
Essential Documents
Legal Services For Children
Caregiver Authorization Affidavit
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In California, a Caregiver's Authorization Affidavit allows a parent to give another caregiver the right to authorize school enrollment and medical care for a child should the parent be unable to continue care. This does NOT provide legal guardianship.
Legal Services For Children
Power of Attorney for Minor Child
This legal document authorizes a trusted person to provide short term care for a child, including educational, healthcare and other decisions.
Financial Preparedness Planning
Clarity →
Free financial resource to help with financial planning; essential for anyone doing preparedness planning
For Children Afraid of Parent's Deportation
This pamphlet was created by infant and child mental health professionals associated with the University of Minnesota in response to questions from community members about what adults can do to support children who are afraid of a parent or other loved ones being deported. This pamphlet contains concrete steps to support children’s sense of safety, positive identity, and healthy relationships during an uncertain time. It can be useful to any adult who is involved in caring for infants, children, and adolescents.