Parents who have had children removed from their care often fear judgment from others. Such judgment may even prevent them from getting the help they need to reunify. They want to be supportive parents, but they feel overwhelmed, lost and alone.
A Father in Crisis
Jeremiah, a father of three, is one of these parents. After separating from his children's mother, Jeremiah and his kids found themselves experiencing homelessness. Without the support of another adult and a place to live, Jeremiah was unable to provide a safe living situation.
His first reaction to his kids being removed was anger. He acted out not because he wanted to hurt others, but because he felt hurt.
Behind this anger was a sense of fear, hopeless and confusion. Jeremiah did not understand the family reunification process or how to get started.
Family Connections Provides Support and Understanding
Luckily, Jeremiah wouldn't have to go through the process alone. The Department of Child Safety (DCS) referred him to Catholic Charities’ Family Connections program.
Family Connections is a change-focused intervention that strengthens families through individualized sessions that teach problem-solving, build relationships, and offer guidance on handling emotions. Family Connections also connects parents to resources like utility, rent or childcare assistance and emergency food or clothing.
At first, Jeremiah was hesitant to accept help. But once he realized that program staff truly cared about his family reunifying, he decided to give it a try.
Empowering Parents with Knowledge and Resources
Jeremiah started meeting with a Catholic Charities team member known as a Family Connections Consultant (FCC). The FCC empowered Jeremiah with parenting education, including knowledge about empathy, positive discipline, positive communication and expectations.
This education helped Jeremiah learn how to take responsibility instead of shifting blame. His FCC also helped him meet the requirements for family reunification by providing beds and fulfilling other basic needs.
Jeremiah went from feeling angry and unheard to supported and valued. He is now in a better place to listen to his children, empathize with them and provide positive discipline.
Working Through the Reunification Process
His hard work paid off when he was able to have visits with his children. This has now progressed to having overnight visits as well.
Family Connections has also transformed Jeremiah’s passion for supporting his children. He plans to start his own business to create a better life for them. Jeremiah hopes to continue toward reunification and becoming the patient, loving dad he always knew he could be.
Support Family Connections
An essential part of the Family Connections program involves connecting parents to resources and items they may need. Donations of diapers, cleaning supplies, personal care items and more are always appreciated. Donate online today through our Amazon Charity List.
