T. and J. are a brother and sister living at Five Acres here in California. Their birth father and an uncle were recently located by Family Finders. Although their birth father is now in touch with them and visits regularly, he has some serious alcohol and other issues which prevent him from offering to bring them home to live with him. Ten other children that he has fathered also exist which undoubtedly complicates matters as well.

When interviewed on camera, the birth father told his two children that he loves them, and is sorry for not being there for them. His words do not make up for the past, but particularly for T., she needed to hear his apology, and needed to hear him say that he loves her. His words provided some healing for her. J., her brother is leery and less willing to give his birth father a chance, but that is to be expected.

Both children are close to high school graduation and heading off to college soon. The uncle that they have reconnected with has offered his home as a place for them to spend breaks from college such as Christmas vacation. He is stable and is eager to connect with his niece and nephew.

The man who instigated this program to find family members for troubled group home residents was interviewed on camera and said quite simply that knowing family members is basic. I wanted to walk over and kiss the screen when he said that. There was no mincing words about why children need to be in touch with family members when possible. It should not appear a complicated mystery - the need to know one's roots. It is a primal need and I love when I find people who "get that" and think reunions between birth family members are of value and should be encouraged.