The Belt: Jeremy's Story
10-year-old Jeremy’s dad has been using a heavy belt to punish him for as long as Jeremy can remember. His dad hits him so hard that he gets welts and bruises on his buttocks and the backs of his legs. Jeremy’s dad began physically disciplining him when he was a year old for things like crying, forgetting what he was told to do, and spilling his milk.

Homeless: Gavin and Jessie's Story
8-year-old Gavin and his 6-year-old sister Jessie have no regular home to live in. They are frequently shifted about, often sleep on couches or floors, and are used to not knowing if they will get enough food to eat. Their mother has mental health problems and alcohol and drug abuse problems. Gavin does his best to take care of Jessie and tries to keep his mom out of trouble.

At any given time, from about 55% to 70% of the children in out-of-home care are there because of abuse or neglect.

Needs Special Care: Cindy's Story
15-year-old Cindy slashes and gouges her arms with anything that will cause pain. She can’t stop. Her parents have tried counseling but it has not stopped her self-mutilation. They are afraid that she might kill herself. They want her to be someplace that can keep her safe.

Overwhelmed Parents: Danny's Story
11-year-old Danny is severely autistic. His father Kevin is raising Danny and his two siblings alone. He cannot handle Danny’s extreme needs in the home while also working over 50 hours a week and meeting the needs of Danny’s siblings. Danny’s aunt Cindy has tried to help, but it hasn’t been enough. His needs are just too great.

At any given time, from about 4% to 6% of the children in out-of-home care are there because of special care and treatment needs.

Stolen Property: Brandon's Story
14-year-old Brandon and his 12-year-old sister Tina live with their adult sister Stacey.  Their father is in prison for drug possession. Stacy works two jobs to pay the bills, and Brandon and Tina have no supervision after school. After Brandon gets beat up on his way home from school, he starts hanging out with boys Stacy calls “nothing but trouble”. Brandon says they’ve got his back. But three months later he’s taken into custody and charged with receipt of stolen property.

Frightening Behavior: Kristin's Story
13-year-old Kristin is completely defiant with her parents, going wherever and whenever she wants. She fights with them frequently and has recently started getting physical with family members - throwing things and pushing. Her parents are frightened she is going to get into serious trouble, and they are somewhat frightened of her, too. Kristin is also scared of how out of control her life is.

Between 7% and 10% of the children in out-of-home care are there because of behavior problems or violations of law.