The Morales family includes: Iris (11 y/o female), Camila (12 y/o sister), and Grandma who is their primary caregiver. The Morales family was referred to Aviva via a referral to our intensive Multi-Disciplinary Team program in January 2023. Iris and Camila bravely spoke out about traumatic experiences that they were living through. As a result, DCFS officially placed them in the custody of their grandmother with whom they have grown up with since birth. Grandma is the sole provider and has stepped up to ensure that the girls are able to remain in her home. She worked diligently to convert her 1-bedroom apartment into a 2-bedroom apartment so that the placement can be preserved and stable. Grandma is a hard worker but this year she has also faced medical conditions which has impacted her ability to work the hours she needs. Iris and Camila love their grandma very much. Iris, Camila, and Grandma have demonstrated their resilience in the aftermath of the events that led to their referral. Iris explores her thoughts and feelings in therapy sessions to process the situations that she has been through throughout her life. Iris showed an interest in using creative outlets to help her open up and express herself. Iris learned to crochet and uses this hobby to connect with others including her grandmother, schoolteacher, and friends at school. Iris has made progress in the time that she has been with Aviva. She has recently shared in therapy that although she doesn’t like to open up, expressing herself has been made easier by having consistent weekly therapy. The family is used to being hyper independent as this is how they have survived. The Morales family deserves an extra special holiday season and they would be so grateful to be selected.
