A Family Legacy: Child Welfare in the 1920’s

In this episode, Allison shares the story of her paternal grandmother, Helen Mahoney, and her grandmother’s experience in the child welfare system in the United States in the early 1920’s. As a young child, Helen was placed in St. Joseph's Home for the Friendless, an orphanage in Chicago, following the death of her mother. Allison explores the impact of Helen's upbringing on their family and draws parallels between her grandmother's experience and the ongoing challenges faced by children in today's foster care system. Through this personal narrative, Allison emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing the invisible struggles of youth impacted by the child welfare system. 

 Note! [Please be advised that this episode discusses child abuse, institutional abuse, and sexual abuse, which may be triggering for some listeners. If you need to take a break or skip this episode, please do so and prioritize your well-being.]

What You’ll Learn: 

Insight #1:  What a child’s experience in congregate care looked like in the early 1920’s and how it shaped future generations.  

Insight #2:  A brief history of foster care in the United States and persisting issues that continue affect children in foster care today. 

 

Key Takeaways: 

1.  The parallels between child welfare practices in the early 20th century and children’s experiences in congregate care today, including sibling separation.  
2. The importance of storytelling and shining a light on children’s experiences in child welfare systems.  

 

Get Legal Help: 

Are you a young person who was treated unjustly in foster care? Do you know a child who was mistreated in foster care? ALM Law is offering free consultations on child welfare civil rights matters. Schedule your 15-minute consultation today to gain clarity and understand your options. 

Call: 970 - 315 – 5152 

Check our website at almlawllc.com