Sarah*, age six, was found locked inside a parked car on a busy street. After a short search, police found Sarah's father drinking at a bar two blocks away. He was charged with endangering the welfare of a child. Sarah was placed in foster care and moved in with her cousins. Shortly after, a CASA named Viola was assigned to Sarah's case.
Sarah's cousins reported to Viola that Sarah seemed to be struggling to adjust to living with them. Sarah's teachers also expressed concern about Sarah's inability to pay attention in school or follow instructions. Viola pressed the school district to assess Sarah for learning disabilities. After an evaluation, the district found that Sarah’s hearing was significantly impaired.
In the meantime, Sarah's paternal grandparents began to express interest in having her live with them when their son was unable to address his substance use disorder in a timely fashion. They lived in a home without any other children, and could devote more time and energy to helping her. Viola met with them and saw their genuine concern for their granddaughter. At the next court hearing for Sarah’s case, Viola recommended to the Judge that Sarah move in with her grandparents. Two years later, Sarah is an energetic eight year old who is thriving with the love and support of her grandparents.
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