A review with child welfare staff found that the family had stable housing, reliable adult contacts, access to food and medical care, and a plan for emergencies.

Ashley’s therapist and physician provided input within their roles.

The transition home was gradual, with visits and check-ins rather than a sudden handoff.

When the day finally came, Andrew spent the morning cleaning the rental house.

He replaced the damaged kitchen ceiling tile, put fresh food in the refrigerator, and taped important numbers inside a cupboard door.

He had repaired the broken chain-link gate, too, with Luis’s help.

He did not try to make the house look wealthy.