Canyon Acres Children and Family Successes…

Karen's Story

Karen and her siblings had been in the Child Welfare System since 1993. Throughout her childhood, Karen was placed in and out of foster and group homes eventually losing track of her siblings. When Karen was emancipated at age 18, she began living in a boyfriend’s trailer and had no connection with her biological family. The only information Karen had about her family was that her mother was deceased. She had no idea who her father was.

At age 20, pregnant with her second child, in a failed relationship, and with no permanent place to live, Karen was referred to Canyon Acres Creating Family Connections (CFC) program. The CFC team went to work conducting a thorough search for Karen’s long-lost family members with the goal of: 1) finding and increasing family support and connections for Karen and her children, and 2) broadening her options for a healthier living situation.

The CFC team soon discovered a maternal aunt living in Texas with a sister and other family members nearby who were eager to reconnect with her. The aunt stated that it had been over 7 years since she had last seen or spoke with Karen. The discovery opened up the door to a flood of more family members eager to be connected and involved in Karen’s life.

In June, both aunts flew to California to attend a baby shower for Karen hosted by a local family member. Over 15 relatives attended the shower! Because of Canyon Acres, today, Karen and her children are well on their way to having the support and love that only a family can provide. Additionally, positive living options are being arranged by the extended family members with the help of the CFC team.