For years, Cathy* had been “home base” for her five grandchildren, ranging from five months to eight years old, as her daughter struggled with addiction. But now her daughter was completely out of control, and Cathy knew the time had come to raise them permanently.
At this stage in her life, Cathy had imagined slowing down … not starting over with diapers and school pickups. Yet, she knew what she had to do. She kept praying, trusting God to make a way.
Still, the challenges were overwhelming. How would she feed and clothe five more people? Afford a bigger place?
That’s when Cathy was referred to LCFS’ Extended Family Support program, where she met Clarence, a caseworker who listened and stood by her every step of the way. He helped her obtain legal guardianship, clothing vouchers, and other vital assistance.
“Even with everything she was carrying, Cathy always showed up with a smile,” Clarence recalled. “She was full of faith and joy.”
Almost a year after their case was closed, just before Christmas, Cathy reached out to Clarence again. This time, it was for her oldest granddaughter who was acting out and seemed depressed. Clarence connected Cathy with counseling services for her. Then, he asked how Cathy was doing.
She shared that they had moved to a larger place, one much more comfortable for the six of them. But she had recently lost her job, and with Christmas around the corner, she didn’t know how she would afford gifts for the children. That weighed heavily on her heart.
Thanks to the generosity of people like you, Clarence was able to spring into action. He purchased and delivered a few special gifts for each child. Cathy’s eyes welled with tears as she realized that, once again, her prayers had been answered.
*Names and images changed for privacy