Little Mickey—A New Beginning 

By Patricia Majerczyk, Case Worker

Seven-year-old “Mickey” came to live at Lee & Beulah Moor Children’s Home during the Christmas holidays. He was living with his mother and his two brothers, but two months prior to coming to the Home, his family’s home had burned down, killing one of his younger brothers and leaving the family homeless.  All of their belongings burned in the fire—all they had were the clothes on their backs. Mickey was suffering, confused, numb, and unable to accept or understand the death of his brother. He and his remaining brother had no place to go. To make matters worse, his mother had an outstanding warrant. She was given the opportunity to make living arrangements for Mickey and his brother before turning herself into custody.

On a cold December day, the two boys arrived at Lee Moor accompanied by their mother. The staff at Lee Moor worked diligently—after hours and during the holidays—to assist Mickey’s mother with all the required documentation for placement. The process was completed in just two days and the boys were informed that they were accepted into the program. Mickey was overwhelmed with joy and started running around all over the main office building. He was yelling and happy that he had a place to live and toys and friends to play with. He smiled with a great big smile and his eyes twinkled with joy.

Mickey has been living at LBMCH for six months. During this time he has made great improvements in his personal well being and his performance at school. He is making excellent grades. With professional help, he continues to work on dealing with the loss of his brother and has made great progress. He is a happy child. His mother has resolved her legal issues and has reestablished herself as a productive citizen in the community. She is in the process of establishing an adequate home where Mickey and his brother’s basic needs can be met. Even though they are poor, they consider themselves wealthy with love and family support. Mickey loves his mother and brother very much, and he knows his mother loves him. Mickey is excited, and is patiently waiting to be reunited with mother and brother so they can be a family again.