Success story

The situation

William, James, and Brooklyn entered foster care because their parents were unable to care for them. They were among the 75% of children who enter foster care due to neglect, which is strongly correlated with a lack of financial resources. Their Kinnect to Family specialist began reaching out to the priority contacts she identified. Initially, their maternal grandma, Donna, did not feel that she would be able to care for the children because her work schedule conflicted with their school drop-off and pick-up.

The facilitation

The specialist reached out to additional family members to create a plan of support. Together, they created a transportation plan for the children, as well as additional support for Donna that included babysitting and supplies. Knowing she was not alone and had other family members to support her gave Donna the confidence to become the main caregiver for the three siblings.

The outcome

Without the intentional efforts of the specialist to create a detailed “Roadmap to Family,” Donna may not have had the courage to bring her grandkids home, and they may have entered foster care and been separated from each other and their family, community, and culture.

*Names and identifying information have been changed for purposes of confidentiality.