Their Stories

Maria's two children were removed after a neighbor filed an anonymous complaint. Despite no evidence of abuse or neglect, her family spent 14 months separated before a judge finally dismissed the case.

"They came to my door on a Tuesday morning. By noon, my children were gone. I had done nothing wrong."

Denise's daughter was taken after a hospital visit for a broken arm — an accident DCF chose to classify as suspicious. Two years later, Denise is still fighting through the courts.

"I was told I would get my daughter back in 30 days. That was two years ago. I have not stopped fighting."

Keisha's son was placed in foster care after DCF cited "inadequate housing" — a claim made while her family was in the middle of a move. She was never given the chance to explain.

"My son asks me every visit why he can't come home. I don't have an answer that makes sense, because there isn't one."

Gloria, a grandmother raising her grandchildren after her daughter's passing, had the children removed when DCF questioned her age and health — despite a clean home and loving environment.

"I raised my own children. I raised my grandchildren. And still they said I wasn't enough."

Ashley's newborn was taken from the hospital before she even left. DCF cited a prior case from five years earlier that had been closed and expunged. She had no warning and no legal representation.

"They took her before I could even hold her for the first time. I keep thinking about that moment."

Renee sought help from DCF for her son's behavioral health needs. Instead of support, she received a removal order. Her attempt to get help for her child became the reason they took him.

"I asked for help. That was my mistake. I should have known asking for help would cost me everything."