(Posted 2026 August)
By Colleen Regan, Supervisor Central Case Carrying Unit
When the Department of Family Services first becomes involved with families, we often meet them at some of the lowest points in their lives. That was the case for Rebecca* and her five‑year‑old and twelve‑month‑old daughters.
In spring 2025, the department received serious reports about child safety related to Rebecca’s alcohol and substance use. She became so intoxicated at a shelter that staff could not wake her and she was transported to the hospital by EMS. There were ongoing concerns she continued to drink after her release. The family was already involved with Protection and Preservation Services due to earlier concerns involving domestic violence and substance use.
Rebecca had been in intensive outpatient treatment for nearly three months, but there were repeated failed drug screens, continued alcohol use, and driving under the influence. She acknowledged that her hospitalization resulted from heavy drinking throughout the night and into the morning, until staff found her unable to get up and vomiting. Due to these serious safety concerns, Child Protective Services removed her daughters and placed them in foster care.
At that point, Rebecca faced multiple overlapping challenges: problematic alcohol use and earlier substance use concerns, a history of domestic violence, homelessness, and strained, unstable relationships with both girls’ fathers. She was missing therapy appointments and continuing to drink. Providers recommended inpatient treatment. The children needed immediate safety; Rebecca needed support, accountability, and a clear path toward change.
Just five days after removal, the court held the initial hearing. Rebecca, devastated by the separation, was clear that she wanted reunification. There she met her foster care specialist, who explained the process, emphasized that reunification was the goal, and was honest that it would require consistent work and meaningful change.
Shortly afterward, Rebecca admitted herself into inpatient rehabilitation. She completed a month of residential treatment and then entered a 180‑day residential recovery program. She participated in a Partial Hospitalization Program for a month, then three months of Intensive Outpatient therapy, moving from inpatient to partial hospitalization to outpatient services and demonstrating growing stability and commitment to sobriety.
Rebecca also rebuilt the practical foundations of her life. With her specialist’s support, she secured a two‑bedroom apartment and received a Family Unification Program housing voucher. The specialist helped her obtain federal grant funding for the security deposit and first month’s rent, then connected her with community organizations and social media resources to furnish the home.
She returned to the workforce, first taking a retail job to re‑establish work history and income, then securing a pharmacy position and beginning coursework to become a certified pharmacy technician, reflecting a commitment to long‑term stability and independence.
Throughout, Rebecca stayed in close contact with the department. She consistently attended visits, applying new parenting skills. Supervisors observed a strong bond and noted her age‑appropriate play, routines, and nurturing care. Visits progressed from fully supervised to monitored full‑day Saturdays, then to unsupervised weekend visits in her home, including overnights. The foster care specialist ensured in‑home supports were in place as the family adjusted.
A strong, respectful working relationship supported this progress. The specialist focused on trust, gave Rebecca space to speak openly without judgment, and remained transparent about expectations and next steps, underscoring that the department’s role was to partner with her in creating a safe, stable home.
A key service provider supervised visits and later offered in‑home services, giving Rebecca a therapeutic setting to discuss triggers, practice coping skills, and integrate her recovery work into daily parenting.
The specialist also engaged both fathers. She helped re‑establish consistent contact and virtual visits with her 5-year-old’s out‑of‑state father and worked with her 12-month-old’s father in light of domestic violence, supporting Rebecca in setting clear boundaries so her daughter could have a safe relationship with him. Rebecca’s parents provided ongoing emotional and practical support and remained a steady presence.
By January 2026, Rebecca’s sustained efforts led to significant progress. At a Family Partnership Meeting, the team agreed she was ready for a trial home placement, and plans were set for both children to return by the end of the month. Over the next six months, the department monitored safety, supported Rebecca’s sobriety, and ensured her needs were met.
Rebecca maintained her recovery, housing, employment, and consistent, safe parenting. At the final court hearing, the department recommended returning legal custody and closing the case.
Rebecca’s story shows how courage, persistence, and coordinated, compassionate support can lead from crisis to reunification when safety remains at the center.
*Names changed to protect confidentiality.
This article posting is part of the Foster Family News monthly newsletter designed to keep foster parents informed about all the new and notable happenings in Fairfax County.
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