“My biggest hope for my children is for them to achieve everything they want to,” says Carmen, a mother of four, whose daughter Ana is enrolled in Friends of the Children — Coachella Valley, in California.

Carmen is a survivor of domestic violence and is raising her children as a single mother while their father is incarcerated. Hardship does not define Carmen’s story though—she shows an unwavering commitment to build a better future for her family.

When Ana enrolled in Friends of the Children, she was shy and struggling academically. But with the steady support of Belinda—her professional mentor—Ana began to blossom, raising her hand in class, discovering a love of reading, and becoming more confident.

Shortly after Ana entered the program, the family came to the attention of the child welfare system. The converted garage the family called home had become cluttered, and at times, Carmen had to leave the children alone while she worked. Child welfare had enough cause to consider removing the children from the home, but what happened next speaks to the power of partnership and prevention.

When child welfare learned about the family’s involvement with Friends of the Children, they spoke with Belinda and the Program Director, Cecelia, who shared that Ana was thriving in school, and Carmen was working to improve the family’s circumstances.

Instead of removing the children, the family was placed on a three-month improvement program, and the Friends — Coachella Valley team rolled up their sleeves and connected the family to after-school programming, therapy, and a domestic violence survivor program. They also brought in community partners to transform their home and remove clutter.

Paint was donated to remove visible reminders of the past. A refrigerator, a ceiling fan, and door were also donated. Community members provided a patio set for enjoying meals together, a bunk bed, and a new bed for Carmen. The county donated mattresses for the children, so now each child has their own space.

“I have seen so much determination from this family,” says Cecilia. “With Friends of the Children
dedicating time to the family, they have been able to make positive changes. I am excited for what their future holds.”

Their home is now a place of peace, comfort, and possibility, and the family is flourishing.

Throughout it all, Carmen continues to show up with resolve and love, adjusting her work schedule to spend more time at home, and enlisting Grandma’s help to ensure the children are safe.

Carmen’s story shows what is possible when families feel supported. It is proof that foster care prevention is possible when communities come together and walk alongside families through life’s hardest moments.

“Ana is so smart and coming into her own. She is talkative, loves to draw, color, and read,” says Carmen. “I am so glad Belinda came into our lives. It feels good to know people are there for me and my kids.”

*Youth name changed to protect privacy