In June 2005, the state agency removed a sibling group of five children ranging in age from 3 years to 9 years old from their home. The children were removed because their drug abusing mother was neglecting and physically abusing them.  They were placed at the Emergency Children’s Shelter.

After three months, the children left the Shelter to live in a foster home. In short order, however, Joey, the oldest boy, was removed from the foster home and the state agency asked the Emergency Children’s Shelter to again admit Joey.  Now Joey was older and so rather than going to the Shelter, he went to live at the Bulverde campus.  Our seamless continuum of care across ages from infants to 21 years old made it possible for Joey to return easily.

Joey had a difficult transition once back at the Ranch. He exhibited behavior problems, especially at school.  Most of the behavioral issues were caused by Joey having spent time with children who were negative influences on him and by his not having any positive parental role models in his young life.  Joey’s behaviors continued for months.  When you saw him, you saw a sad child who rarely smiled.  Given the trauma in his little life, this was not surprising.

Part of Joey’s individualized treatment plan developed by the trained and dedicated staff included sessions with a psychiatrist and taking needed medications.  Joey was able to earn rewards for making good choices and exhibiting appropriate behaviors – and he responded dramatically to this treatment method.  He earned several toys, a baseball, a baseball bat and then a hamster.  Joey was permitted to have the hamster because he proved that because he could now take care of himself, he was responsible enough to care for a pet.

Joey also became a little entrepreneur, setting up a lemonade, cookie and popcorn stand outside the Administration Building the afternoon of a Board meeting.  Joey was the perfect young businessman – polite, respectful and well stocked!  And the Board members ate very well during the meeting!

Over time, Joey has needed less and less medication, as he is more and more able to manage his social and emotional behaviors.  His behavior continues to improve and he was very excited about school starting this year.

Joey continues to improve daily.  He has gone from being non-compliant with his treatment plan to full compliance with the plan and the Program.  He has bonded with the staff and has positive relationships with the other children on campus.  Joey’s story well demonstrates the significant, positive impact that St. Jude’s Ranch and its Therapeutic Residential Treatment Program has on creating new lives with new chances, new choices and new hopes for the children in our care.