Story
The family recently endured a significant loss of the mother’s grandfather, the child’s maternal great-grandfather served as the father figure to all and was the mother’s advocate and primary source of support. The mother has managed to persist and navigate challenges during her time of grief. The mother is a single parent with 3 children ages 11, 3 and 9 months. The mother still has custody of all children however the11-year-old and 3 year-old are temporarily residing with relatives as mother and the baby currently reside at an in-patient treatment program. I am requesting an electric guitar for the 11 year old as well as safety items (outlet covers, cabinet locks, and baby gate) for the baby who is now residing with mother in transitional housing. The mother demonstrates insight into unhealthy familial patterns and is motivated to break the cycles of drug abuse and poverty. The mother is looking forward to re-entry into the work force as she has an employment history and enjoys the independence and having the ability to provide for the needs of all 3 children. Fulfilling this request would ensure that the child has an additional outlet to process her trauma in an effort to support and stabilize her emotional wellbeing and for mother to be able to ensure that her home is safe for the baby. DCFS has assisted the family by providing assistance with clothes, food and hygiene product. The total price for the guitar, outlet covers, cabinet locks, and baby gate is 190.00.