The Carter Brothers’ Long Road to Permanency

Abstract Three brothers—aged seven, eight, and nine—were raised by their mother as she battled alcohol addiction (and a turbulent, sometimes violent, itinerant father). Mom loved the older two boys but scorned the youngest. All suffered collateral damage of domestic violence, neglect, and malnourishment. They were removed from their home and placed in an RTC they loved. They thought of it as boarding school and bonded with staff. They went on home visits, and mom visited when she was sober. Suddenly, all three were transferred to the Children’s Village. They never knew why. The older two adjusted well; the youngest struggled. Mom tried but couldn’t stay sober. When she seemed to overcome her addiction, the boys returned home, only to boomerang back. Their stories show how complex the choices are, especially for sibling groups, and how out-of-home care, including group care, often strengthens family ties and furthers family preservation.