Community Members Discuss Reunification and Family Preservation

At a community event in Jefferson County, local experts and advocates gathered to discuss strategies to support families in crisis. The panel featured Shawani Milton from ZERO TO THREE’s Safe Babies program and Attorneys Chrishauna Taggart and Therese Free. These dedicated professionals shared their insights into the challenges faced by families and the critical role of community resources in supporting family stability.

ZERO TO THREE’s Safe Babies program provides early intervention to families at risk. Their goal is to keep families together whenever possible by providing resources and education that can prevent removals. Comprehensive support in necessary to address root issues before they escalate.

Attorney Chrishauna Taggart addressed attendees' questions on the details of foster care and adoption, highlighting that preventative measures are available and can be implemented before a case is formally opened. Taggart and others in attendance advocated for broader community awareness and involvement, as well as proactive intervention to prevent family separation whenever possible.

Attorney Therese Free highlighted the First Family Preservation Act, which allows federal funding to flow into programs that aim to keep children with their families when safe and feasible. Personal stories from others in the room recognized that the trauma of removal is significant, especially for young children and the earlier we can intervene with supportive resources, the better chance we have of achieving a positive outcome for both the child and the family. Attendees also advocated for more foster and adoptive parents who are prepared to support children with trauma.

The event concluded with a powerful group discussion on the community’s role in supporting vulnerable families. These panelists are members of the 100 Families Initiative in Jefferson County, an alliance of community members who are dedicated to collaboration, and the utilization of existing community resources. They agree that successful family preservation relies on community involvement and ongoing partnerships.