June is a month that we celebrate dads – and it is also when we celebrate family reunification.
And at Spaulding, we know how important fathers are to families. Did you know that according to the U.S. Census Bureau, 18.2 million children, or one in four, live without a biological, step, or adoptive father in the home? It’s true.
The absence of a father can impact children in a number of ways – and the presence of a father can help children (and mothers) immensely.
“Being in a two-parent household is not a requirement for reunification, adoption, foster care or respite, but we know that the more support a child has in their life, those connections increase the likelihood of better outcomes,” said Melissa Jenovai, Spaulding CEO. “Fathers and male role models are just as important as mothers and maternal figures in a child and young person’s life.”
Peter Rodriguez, a Detroit dad, is one of our Spaulding fathers.
He’s a chef by trade and has four children ranging in age from 36 to four-years-old. He came to Spaulding after learning of a custody issue with the mother of his youngest child, going to court and classes to gain full custody of his child.
“It’s been a rigorous battle,” Peter says. “But I’m happy to say I completed it all.”
Peter is also getting a house and is proud to be able to live there with his youngest child.
“We have come a long way and continue to move forward,” he said. “Thank you for everything Spalding.”
This time around, Peter said fatherhood was a totally different challenge. He is currently a single dad. However, he knows that he and his son have a bright future ahead.
“It’s the greatest thing that’s ever happened to me,” Peter said. “My son has totally changed me in so many good ways that I’m happy to look in the mirror everyday now and see his progress and our progress.”
Stories like this are why we do what we do at Spaulding For Children. To all the dads out there, we salute you.
