After nearly one year apart, Reba’s family will celebrate the holidays together at home.

Reba — a Lakeland mother of two — welcomed her children home from foster care just in time for the magic of the holiday season.

After surviving a toxic domestic relationship and battling substance abuse, Reba found the strength to overcome her challenges, reach her goals and reunite with her children. She found support along the way with Children’s Home Society of Florida and her Case Manager, Sabrina.

“Today, I am grateful for Sabrina, my family and all my mistakes because without them I wouldn’t have went to rehab and learned how to be a better me and a better mother to my children,” said Reba.

Reba and her girls celebrating holiday magic together.

What many people may not know is the goal of foster care is to partner with parents to build upon their strengths so they may safely welcome their children back home. Last year alone, Children’s Home Society of Florida helped safely reunify more than 1,000 families throughout Florida.

Everyone here at CHS is tremendously proud of Reba for overcoming her dark days, believing in herself and doing the work to be the best parent she can be for her children. Reba also continues to find guidance with CHS’ Parents as Partners support group – a group dedicated to supporting parents navigating the world of child welfare.

CHS believes  no child, no family should face the tough times alone. We are committed to meeting children and families at the right time with the right services – no matter where they are in life.

By partnering with parents, we know we can help build strong families, keep families together and empower them to find – and pursue – opportunities for success and happiness.