I am 12 years old and Extended Family for Kids gave me hope for my future. My world turned upside down when my dad was arrested. Seeing my dad handcuffed and taken away in a police car left me angry and confused. My dad was my best pal.
I am not allowed to visit him, I only get to talk to him once a week. This makes me sad and hopeless even though my dad tells me that he loves me.
Extended Family for Kids is a program offered by Catholic Social Services. It has helped me talk about my feelings in a safe place with other kids that have faced similar situations. They helped me realize that my dad’s bad choices are not my fault and that I should not fear police officers. This program helped me recognize my anger, control my temper, and express my feelings calmly and effectively. Extended Family for Kids made me feel loved and gave me hope for my future.