River Oak Center for Children: Wraparound

When we hear of children whose lives have been shattered by poverty, violence, child abuse
or substance abuse, we want to wrap our arms around them. The Wraparound Program
embraces children and troubled teens from ages three to 18 who, without help, are likely to be
kicked out of school, removed from the home, or wind up in the juvenile justice system.

The program brings together River Oak's mental health and social work professionals with
community networks and services to support the child and family. And sometimes, as in the
case of Harry, they are able to reunite children with family members.

Harry fought for his survival for years. He and his four brothers and sisters were removed from
their family home due to child abuse and neglect, and then bounced from one group home to
another. To protect himself from the pain of his life, Harry withdrew. He was increasingly cut
off from others and failing in school.

The River Oak team helped Harry to safely express himself and cope in school. But more
importantly, they helped him to form a new connection with his grandmother by encouraging
her to visit. As their affection for one another grew, she decided that she wanted to take care
of Harry. Months of work and preparation later, the judge granted her request. At last, Harry
had a home he could count on.

Children are referred to Wraparound by Sacramento County Child Protective Services and the
Sacramento County Child and Family Access Team, Department of Health and Human
Services Division of Mental Health (916-875-9980).