Can you imagine a nine-year-old little girl having significant suicidal thoughts That was the heartbreaking and terrifying situation Claudia found herself in with her daughter, Gabby. She turned to Family & Children’s Agency (FCA) for help.
FCA provides intensive psychiatric services to children with severe mental health needs. The program provided a team of two, a Master’s-level clinician and a mental health counselor, who began visiting Gabby in her home where Claudia, her only parent, and her siblings also lived. Gabby was very reluctant to accept help and it took a lot of time, patience, and effort to form a bond with her. Over time, FCA staff helped Claudia see positive ways she could connect with her daughter rather than viewing her depression as “making trouble.” Gabby began warming to her FCA counselors and finally felt comfortable enough to disclose that she had been molested by a friend of the family, which was at the root of her mental health struggles.
The FCA team guided Claudia in taking the appropriate steps to report the incident, and she was able to strengthen her relationship with her daughter. They have now completed FCA’s intensive program and Gabby is doing well, regularly attends therapy, and no longer has any desire to end her young life.
Gabby’s is just one of countless success stories that Family & Children’s Agency has made possible even during the challenges faced from the pandemic. For nearly 80 years, FCA has provided over 30 programs serving children, families, adults, and seniors. We do this only with the support of caring people like you.
The need for our services is great – now more than ever. Your generosity will allow us to make an impact and I ask for your support. I hope we can count on you to join us in our efforts and make a commitment with a gift of $25, 50, 100, or more to our Annual Fund this year. Your support is critical and will make a significant difference to children like Gabby.
Thank you on behalf of the thousands of people in our community who depend on FCA, and on you.
Sincerely,
Robert F. Cashel
President & CEO
