Tommy, 2, was found at 2am wandering along a railroad without a coat last year. His parents were found at home, intoxicated and unaware that their child was not at home. Tommy was placed in foster care and his parents began treatment for mental health and substance abuse issues. A year later, they struggled to stay sober, and the court decided that it would better for Tommy to live with his aunt and uncle. The Caregiver Advocacy Program helped them understand their rights and what they would be able to do for Tommy through a custody arrangement. He sees his biological parents weekly, and they’re trying hard to be good parents. In the meantime, he is home safe in bed every night in his aunt and uncle’s loving home.
*Name and story has been modified to protect the identity of the child