Brothers

Since they were in kindergarten, Gabe and his younger brother Shawn, had to go outside to the cold garage an hour before the school bus arrived to pick them up because their mom didn’t like them to be in the house.  She said they “got on her nerves”. It was cold that winter morning when Gabe decided not to get on the school bus, and it had been snowing all night long.  He was too embarrassed by the bruises his stepfather had left on him the night before.  It wasn’t the first time Gabe had been beaten, it happened often when his mother and stepfather came home.  

Gabe and Shawn are orphans of the living.  Even though they have parents, they are unloved and uncared for, often not having food to eat or warm clothing to wear.  Their mother and stepfather were often out of the house feeding their addiction to illegal drugs.

After too many days spent hiding in the garage and too many bruises, officials sent Gabe and Shawn to Children’s Foundation of Mid-America where they are safe, warm, and cared for. 

Gabe is beginning to deal with the anger and shame he felt – to understand that it was not his fault that he was abused.  He is working hard at school where he is catching up to his grade level. 

The future looks promising for these brothers. While they may not be able to return to their home, every effort is being made to ensure a safe, healthy environment where both brothers can continue to heal.