Meet Steven

You receive a phone call from your licensing agency at 3:00 am stating the following: 

• Steven is 2 and a half years old and was removed during a police raid of the home, Methamphetamine's were found to be cooking in the trunk of the family's only vehicle. Mom, Sara Smith, had called the police to inform them of the operation. Mom stated she was in fear for her life and that of her child because the boyfriend beats them both. The police were able to confirm signs of domestic violence. The boyfriend was arrested for the manufacturing of meth and possession with intent to sell. Mom was released and placed in a shelter. Steven was placed in the care of CPS until his safety in the care of his mother could be assessed. CPS is concerned that Steven's mom stayed in the home after she knew about the meth operation. There were additional concerns as to whether or not she would bail out her boyfriend.
• The police warrant was served at 11:00 pm and Steven was sleeping in the home when the police arrived. Steven underwent all the necessary precautions to safety remove him since he was believed to have been exposed to toxic, active chemical agents. He was then taken to Hope Hospital for an intital medical examination and toxicology testing. His clothing was taken due to a chemical smell and he was given a shower to remove any trace chemicals. Steven was released with instructions that he was to have a comprehensive medical examination from a pediatrician within the next two days.
• Steven is an only child.
• Mom reports she is unsure of whom the child's father is, she has no family living in the state and has no friends, neighbors, or co-workers who can care for Steven.
• Three months ago, Mom relocated to the area with her boyfriend of one year. They had been living 250 miles away in another part of Arizona.
• Mom reports that Steven has no known medical issues. He is a loving and obedient child who is very attached to her. No other information was able to be gathered since the Mom was ushered away to the hospital for an evaluation and then taken to a shelter.
• The child has only the clothes on his back due to the possibility of chemical contamination from the meth production. The clothes were provided by CPS.

Even though there is very little information known about this child, you and your family decide you are willing to make a commitment to this child and to provide a stable and nurturing home while he is out-of-home foster care. Steven arrives at your home at 5:00 am.

1. What do you need for Steven?
2. You need to schedule Steven's medical exam. What proof of insurance do you have?
3. Who will take Steven to the medical examination?
4. Who can sign the forms?
• We can for the initial exam and routine care.
5. How do you get the examination paid for?
• We sign them "Tina Lyons for DES/CMDP" in order to not be liable for payment.
6. What do you want to learn from Steven's mom at the ice breaker meeting?
7. How are you feeling about this day?
• Nervous, excited, scared, sympathetic & sad for Steven, overwhelmed

Get a good night's sleep and get ready for tomorrow's envelope!