There are countless stories that flow from the heart of our work at Casa de Esperanza— stories of loss and abuse, transformation and empowerment. This is a story of HOPE and strength. As a Casa supporter, you are a hero in Aaron & Jayden’s story, and to so many other precious babies and toddlers like them.
Two scared little boys
“When I went to pick the boys up at the office, they were terrified and sobbing. They were dirty with matted hair and had scratches and bruises all over. The older one was not wearing pants. I don’t think they had shoes,” shares Caregiver Bruce.
Aaron age 3, and Jayden 18 months, came to Casa through child protective services. Caregiver Bruce remembers, “They were starved for physical contact and always wanted to be hugged and snuggled. Those hugs were heartbreaking.”
The boys also had no language skills. Jayden caught on pretty quickly and could tell caregivers his needs, but it took a long time for Aaron; he didn’t speak for over 6 months. Without dedicated donors like you, Aaron may never have found his voice.
Your Donation Makes a Difference
Before I tell you more, I want you to know that now through December 31, your donations can do three times as much good for abused and neglected children in Houston. This holiday season, the gift of your donation will be TRIPLED by matching funds from our generous Matching Star donors.
Healing Takes Time
The neglect the brothers suffered led to setbacks. They didn’t want to play directly with anyone, but if their caregivers sat on the floor with them, they would scoot close. “I worked really hard to keep my body language open and non-threatening. I wanted the boys to know I was available,” said Bruce.
“I will never forget the day we heard Aaron speak. He was diagnosed on the autism spectrum, so we didn’t know what was possible for him. I was at Aaron’s second speech therapy appointment with him, and the therapist put a large mat on the floor with colors, numbers, and shapes. He started counting the numbers out loud! I couldn’t believe it. We were all so encouraged by this moment.
Family Reunification Aided by Casa
Eventually, CPS connected Casa with the boys’ father, who did not know what had happened to his children; “Once I talked to the people at Casa, and knew I could get my boys back, I started working really hard. I worked almost 80 hours a week to get a place for us to live. Once I had paid the deposit, Casa asked me if I had beds and furniture. When I told them I did not, they came and furnished the apartment so the boys could come to live with me. I did not expect that.”
They came to live with Dad a week after his birthday. “It was awesome, the happiest day of my life, having the boys with me. Casa was one of the best things that could have happened to my children.”
Donors like you made this incredible story of family reunification possible
Every step of the way, donors helped Casa to take the brothers in, gave them a year of safety and love, provided a year of supportive caregiving and therapeutic services, helped furnish their father’s apartment, and allowed us to continue our relationship with the family in case they ever need help again.
It’s often said that it takes a village to raise a child. A hard-working parent, supportive caregivers and caseworkers, and your compassion and generosity come together to build safety, love, and hope. Together this village makes reunions and transformations possible.
You Can Change the Future for Abused and Neglected Children
Bruce, who is now in medical school, wants Casa supporters to know: “This is just one story of hundreds. So many kids come to Casa broken. It’s a miracle they leave so much better, they’re transformed. They leave Casa set up for success wherever they are going next. It’s a truly special place.”
Your compassion and generosity can be the catalyst that helps a child speak for the first time—and supports them every step of the way. Our deadline to triple your donation is December 31st, and we need your support today to ensure that every child who walks through our doors finds the care, love, and hope they deserve.
You are not just a donor—you are a lifeline. You are the reason these boys and countless others can dream of a brighter tomorrow. Please join us in transforming lives.
