Abitgail has spent most of her life in Wisconsin foster care. This is her third time being removed from the home. She is a sweet 10-year-old with significant trauma. She is funny and silly, and enjoys school and being around other children. Following is some of the information we received about Abigail. 

Kids in Wisconsin foster care struggle with trauma histories. 

Abigail is in fourth grade, has an IEP, and has speech delays. Teachers describe Abigail as outgoing, talkative, and engaging. She enjoys painting her nails, dancing, and singing. Abigail is diagnosed with ODD, PTSD, and ADHD. She takes two prescription medications for her mental health needs.

She has a long history of depression, and it can creep up on her. She can be charming but triggers easily without warning. On the other hand, she is curious, helpful, and aims to please.

Why kids return to foster care.

In early January, the Child Protective Services Support Program received a neglect report. The reporter learned that Abigail and two other children lived in the home with their mother and her boyfriend. An officer was dispatched to the house. Upon arrival, it was reported that Abigail opened the door and was crying. When asked why she was crying, she said she did not want to tell the officer. The officer overheard a younger child stating that Abigail would get in trouble for answering the door.

It was then determined that Abigail was caring for her siblings, ages 4 and 1. Abigail reported her mother was at work. 

Upon a search of the home, marijuana was found throughout the house. In addition, heroin was found in the mother's bedroom. All the drugs found in the home were noted to be within reach of the children.

Foster parents and kids in care need 24/7 support.

Abigail had a difficult transition after being removed again from her mother and was running away from school and being disruptive in the classroom. She has been with her present foster family for three weeks, and they have requested removal due to heightened behaviors. Many of these behaviors are due to the need for one-on-one attention, which the current foster family struggles to provide due to having two young children in the home.  

Abigail recently stayed with a respite provider and did well over both weekends. She was the only child in the home and received much-needed one-on-one attention. The respite provider praised Abigail and reported that she was a very sweet girl.

Much of her anxiety stems from the thought of going back home and having to care for her siblings. She must be reminded to be a kid and let the adults worry about adult things. This is difficult for her.

CCR foster care supports foster parents and kids like Abigail.

A foster home with no other children in the house is desired. Additionally, Abigail will do best in a home with a parent available when she is not in school to meet her elevated needs.

She has been in the care of many adults and has had several hospital and shelter stays. In 2022 and 2023, Abigail was admitted to a behavioral hospital. She was released to her mother after both discharges. 

Abigail's mother and her boyfriend are criminally charged with child neglect. Mom is released on bond, and the boyfriend remains in custody due to a probation hold. Both deny any knowledge of the drugs in the home. A relative has placement of the two younger siblings. 

Sadly, CCR did not have an available home at the time of referral that could meet Abigails heightened needs. The referring county continued their search.

If you are exploring becoming a foster parent, remember that ALL foster care kids have some level of trauma. Although Abigail's trauma is significant, other kids may display different behaviors and emotions at differing levels.

CCR foster parents are successfully helping kids heal from trauma. We see a lot of growth and healing with kids in our homes. If you want to learn more about the kids and how to become a foster parent we would love to connect with you.

Names and identifying information have been change for privacy protection. This child is no longer in need of placement.