Kerrie's Inspiring Journey to Stability and Reunification

Kerrie Davis faced challenging circumstances when she entered a transitional living facility, unemployed, without transportation, and separated from her infant, who was in foster care. A history of substance abuse had previously led to the loss of parental rights of her older children and multiple legal issues. However, after completing an intensive inpatient treatment program for alcohol and drug abuse, Kerrie was resolute in her commitment to sobriety and determined to maintain parental rights over her youngest child.

In the days following her first appointment with a family advocate for the 100 Families Initiative, Kerrie secured full-time employment and enrolled in Adult Education. She also obtained housing and, with assistance from the Arkansas Division of Children and Family Services (DCFS), was able to move into a new home. Kerrie and her partner, Josh, the child’s father, soon married. With childcare vouchers secured by her advocate and a childcare center accepting the vouchers promptly, they began a trial placement and their baby was returned to them.

While these steps marked significant progress, Kerrie still faced outstanding legal challenges. She attended court dates regularly in Garland County and, with the support of her advocate, worked diligently to resolve outstanding warrants in other counties. However, an oversight in updating her address with the court after moving led to her arrest and over 30 days in jail. This setback resulted in the loss of her job, and her baby returned to foster care.

Despite these challenges, Kerrie’s resilience remained steadfast. Following her release, she recommitted to building a stable life. She secured new full-time employment, arranged childcare vouchers, enrolled in SNAP and Medicaid, and purchased a fully insured and licensed vehicle. She also completed the Salvation Army’s Pathway to Hope program, which helped her solidify a foundation of support and structure. Kerrie has since worked consistently to pay off fines and her DCFS case has been closed, with full custody of her baby returned to her and Josh.

With a solid support system and a series of impactful life changes, Kerrie’s advocates and community partners are hopeful about her upcoming court date to address any remaining legal issues. Her story highlights the transformative power of determination, support, and community resources in overcoming adversity and building a better future for herself and her family.