Jacob came to Children's Aid and Family Services when he was just a toddler. He had suffered such horrendous abuse that he could not speak. He was too frightened to look anyone in the eye and kept his head down. He had high blood pressure and difficulty walking.

The traumatized toddler was placed with agency foster parents who are trained in caring for babies and toddlers with complex medical needs. They embraced Jacob, showering him with love and hugs. They kept reassuring Jacob that he was a wonderful little boy. They took him to medical appointments with a host of specialists. An agency therapist helped him heal from the trauma he endured.

Eventually, Jacob's blood pressure normalized. He began to use a few words, and is now speaking in complete sentences. Most important, he looks his foster parents in the eye and smiles at them. His foster parents worked with the local school to have him evaluated and placed in a pre-school program. Jacob has made friends and enjoys creating artwork. His teacher reports that Jacob is a joy to have in the classroom.

As we approach the holidays, we thank you for making these stories of hope possible with your support of Children's Aid and Family Services. Your support helps us provide training to foster parents who help children such as Jacob heal. Thank you.