Finding Families - boy in need of forever family after abused in the womb

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April is National Child Abuse Prevention month, a time to raise awareness about this devastating crime. In this edition of Finding Families, meet a young boy who was a victim of abuse before he was even born.

If five-year-old Jonathan could talk, he’d tell you he loves to be sung to, read to and cuddled. He also appreciates his sleep.

“Johnny has been a blessing to me and my family,” said Laury, his foster mother.

At birth, the state removed Jonathan from his biological mother.

“I think many times people think of abuse as the physical assault," said Atasha Kelley-Harris, program manager of adoption and post adoption for Depelchin Children’s Center. "This is not that case. This happened because of mom’s drug use in utero.”

Jonathan has brain damage and other health needs. Depelchin Children’s Center is working to spread awareness about the devastating effects of child abuse. Anyone is invited to help tie 6,360 blue ribbons to the center’s fence, the number of child abuse victims reported in Harris County in 2015.

“That’s the symbol this month," said Kelley-Harris. "We tie blue ribbons in honor of children who don’t have a voice for themselves.” 

Laury is speaking out hoping to find a permanent family for Jonathan.

“I just pray he will see a family to adopt him and really care for him,” said Laury.

Jonathan's condition qualifies him for health coverage and around-the-clock nursing.

“There will be someone to help care for him and meet his medical needs, but the family who would do well with him is someone loving and understanding of his condition,” said Kelley-Harris.

If Jonathan could talk, he’d tell you he needs a lot of help. In return, he’ll show a lot of love. To adopt him or any other child, please send email to info@depelchin.org.