Page 6 - childfamily2019annual

0 6 Annual Report 2019

JOSE

Intensive in-home services help famil.ies moue on
from the past and into the next chapter of their Hues,
learning how to make positive changes for themselves
and their f amil.ies.

Jose's parents divorced when he was six years old. When his father left, he cut off all contact
with the family. Jose blamed himself and felt very badly for his mom. Over the years the anger
he felt tO'ward his father continued to build. Finally, at age 16 he started hanging around with a
a group of kids who were getting into trouble, and he w·as arrested for vandalism. Department
of Probation referred his case to the Agency7s Family Preservation Program, which provides
intensive in-home services for families.

Jose's father, Miguel, came back to support his son and worked on renevving their relationship.
The in-home care team from the Agency worked to establish bonding routines for Jose and
Miguel. The two would go on long walks together. Slo,vly their relationship improved and they
were able to connect with each other.

But something wasn't quite right with Jose. He became weak, started having tremors, and
losing muscle. His parents took him to the hospital where doctors diagnosed him with
multiple sclerosis. The crisis brought the family closer together. Miguel made it his mission
to support Jose. He helped with exercises, lifting weights, and they walked together every day.

Miguel realized how important he is to his son and accepted the mistakes he had made.
The team taught him how to advocate with Jose's school to provide special education
adjustments for him. They would role play in preparation for upcoming doctor appointments
so Miguel would know what questions to ask. The in- home support was critical and helped
Jose's parents to improve their own communication in support of their son.

Today, Jose is able to share his feelings and express himself ,,vith his family. His case manager
referred him to the local community center to participate in extra-curricular activities. His
self-esteem has greatly improved and his physical ailments continue to get better.