Reunification is a long process requiring commitment from parents, grandparents, and other family members. Family efforts, court hearings, and support services helped create a stable home for the children. At first, the children stayed with a kinship caregiver, but after a job loss and eviction, the caregiver couldn’t continue. The children were then placed in foster care. Both struggled with behavior issues at home and school, but they didn’t qualify for an Individual Education Plan (IEP). The father stayed in regular contact with the caseworker, met most treatment plan goals, and secured stable housing. He enrolled the children in school, arranged therapy and behavioral coaching, and completed parenting and family therapy. Over time, the children improved emotionally and behaviorally. The mother was initially unmotivated but re-engaged near the case's end. The maternal grandmother’s home was approved as a kinship placement, but the father was already set to reunify with the children. After a protection order between the mother and grandmother was lifted, the mother moved in with her and began supervised visits. The grandmother supported the mother with housing and transportation. The mother eventually completed therapy, parenting classes, and proved her sobriety, leading to regular visits with the children. Foster parents, caseworkers, therapists, and other professionals played key roles, but the father’s consistent efforts and the maternal grandmother’s support were critical. Together, everyone helped ensure the children’s long-term stability and well-being.
Published: March 24, 2025