Abandoned Brothers Find A New Home

In February 2018 the Cayetano family came to HPAL due to their grandchildren’s problematic behavior in school and at home. Leo Cayetano (10) and Jacob Cayetano (11) were having a difficult time adjusting to living with their grandmother, Rocio Cayetano. After Leo and Jacob exhibited aggressive behavior, Rocio was “desperate to find help for her children.” The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) granted Rocio full custody after it was found that the children were being abused by their biological parents. Leo and Jacob were modeling aggressive behavior in school.

At HPAL, Rocio and her grandsons completed 6-months of youth and parent training, as well as intense case management services. “This program,” according to the brothers, “helped our mom be a better mom, and although we are young we can still get in trouble that can lead us into juvenile jail”. After the completion of the classes, Rosio sees a positive change with her grandchildren. 

HPAL is happy to report that since the completion of the program (April 2018), the Cayetano brothers have not had any behavioral challenges in school. Because of their perfect attendance and outstanding behavior, the brothers earned participation in the Sheridan Elementary School Christmas Toy Giveaway. Congratulation Leo and Jacob!