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Home with Jacob: A Father's Journey |
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In November of 2005, Jacob* was born premature and with drugs in his small system. He was immediately referred to YSI for foster care placement. Jacob’s YSI social worker picked him up from the hospital and placed him in the home of a foster parent who has provided love and shelter for many children. Jacob’s young, troubled mother refused treatment, and declined opportunities to see her son. His birth father, Ray*, however, was genuinely interested in being more involved in Jacob’s life, and he began to meet with the YSI social worker.
He also joined a local fatherhood program to help him work towards his goal of achieving full custody. With support and guidance from the social worker, Ray regularly visited his son and built a positive relationship with Jacob’s foster family. In time, he completed a drug treatment program, found a steady job and received sufficient housing assistance to rent a small, bright apartment with a bedroom for Jacob.
Finally, in March of 2007, Ray was reunified with his son. Jacob is now an energetic toddler who attends day care while Ray works the day shift. He visits his foster mom often. Ray and Jacob continue to receive "after care” and counseling services from Youth Service, Inc. Both father and son are happy and well.
*names have been changed to protect client confidentiality.
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Project Safe Place: Erika's Story |
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Erika*, 15, who was once a good student, began experiencing problems at home and was frequently abused by her mother. She skipped classes on a regular basis and loitered in local parks until dark. After receiving her latest report card with failing grades, Erika was afraid to return home to face her mother.
She remembered learning about “Safe Place” during a school assembly the year before, and knew of a store near her home that displayed the yellow and black logo. Erika entered to ask the clerk for help. Store employees, trained by Youth Emergency Service (YES) staff, responded to Erika’s plea. They calmed her down and contacted an employee at YES, who promptly picked up Erika. At the shelter, she received immediate counseling. Erika’s social worker engaged her mother and helped her address the cause of her abusive behavior.
Eventually, Erika was able to return home. Her school attendance picked up, and her grades rebounded. Erika and her mother continue to attend family counseling.
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YSI Stories 
