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Even when officials deem conditions unsafe, removal from the home can be traumatic for children and their parents alike.
Thousands of families go through the process to reunify in Maricopa County every year.
Valley resident Connie Fernandez reunited with her young children just a few months ago.
“It’s just wonderful, it's wonderful to have them back,” she said. “I'm not gonna lie, it is tiring. Especially for right now, being a single mother. But it's worth it.”
Their year and a half apart was traumatic and uncertain while she found her way out of a domestic violence situation and into substance abuse treatment.
But forming a bond with her children’s foster parents kept her motivated to reach her ultimate goal of bringing them home.
“My kids are fortunate that they have more than one mom, more than one dad,” said Fernandez. “It's just more people that love and care about my children, so it feels very nice to have that.”
Fernandez said those facing similar challenges should take advantage of local services, despite the anxiety or stigma, as an important step toward a safer and more supportive home environment for both parent and child.
