Thankful Together: A Mother is Reunified with Her Children

This Thanksgiving, one family is celebrating more than just a holiday — they’re rejoicing in the power of resilience, support, and the joy of being together again.

Angel’s journey began in May 2022, when her children were removed from her care and placed in foster care. Because of her wide-range of challenges, Angel was referred to the 100 Families Initiative, a community-led initiative that uses collaboration and technology to helping families overcome crisis. Determined to reunite her family, Angel attended a team decision-making meeting with the Division of Children and Family Services and enrolled with 100 Families shortly after.

Angel's commitment to change propelled her forward. She addressed her substance use and was admitted to Gateway Recovery. Angel's family advocate, Trudy Smith, provided transportation to appointments and connected Angel with resources to access transitional housing.

While living in transitional housing, Angel achieved a significant milestone: a trial home placement with one of her children, while her other child was cared for by their biological father. Despite setbacks in May 2023, including a pending criminal case and housing challenges, Angel’s perseverance never wavered.

By late 2023, Angel found stability, reclaiming her job at Godfather’s Pizza in Fort Smith. The new year brought more triumphs — she moved into her own apartment, passed her driver’s test, and purchased a car. Her hard work paid off in August 2024 when custody of her children was fully restored!

This Thanksgiving, Angel gathers together with her family in an apartment she can afford and recovered from addiction. Her next goal is to pursue an education in nursing. Angel’s story serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with determination and community support.