Paulo came to Project Permanence (PP), when his Child Welfare Worker, Sally made a referral into our program to stabilize Paulo in placement with his maternal Grandmother. Paulo was described as a bright, energetic, young boy with some aggressive behaviors that included cursing, tantruming, hitting, and spitting. Paulo had trouble following directions and remaining in control of his behaviors when in care of an adult. The goal was to stabilize Paulo in his Grandmother's care in preparation for adoption. His grandmother required some education as to how to handle Paulo's behaviors, some financial assistance, transportation, and advocacy in finding an appropriate educational placement. She also suffered from diabetes and other health problems. After the first three months of services, we were sadly informed that Paulo's grandmother had passed. During a period of mourning, Project Permanence intervened only occasionally. Nevertheless, Project Permanence continued to advocate for the family and assisted Paulo and his siblings in a transition to their Great Aunt's home, This caregiver is the sister of the deceased maternal grandmother. Project permanence began to support Paulo in his Aunt's care as a permanent placement. Great Aunt was hooked into Paratransit for transportation assistance, was connected to financial support from Alameda Point Collaborative and budgeting assistance, was educated on interventions through parenting classes and family advocate assistance, received extra therapeutic referrals, IEP assistance, respite services through FSSBA, and emotional support. Paulo began to receive TBS, family and individual therapy services, was connected to an appropriate day treatment services, and to other activities in his community through the assistance of the team. Paulo and Great Aunt began to bond, and are now very close. Paulo's behaviors have significantly improved, and he has made significant strides towards understanding how to interact appropriately with peers and adults. The Great Aunt has proved to her support system that she is steadfast and fully committed to caring for Paulo over the long-term.

CWW Judy Brione was assigned to Paulo’s case in December of 2009. Judy reports that she has had a superb experience with Project Permanence and has said that she, “wishes every family could be so well served.” In a recent report Judy describes her client and his family this way: Paulo … appears to be gradually adjusting to the new home life provided by the maternal great aunt. At times Ms. Lee has expressed that she has felt overwhelmed by taking on the care of Paulo and his sister, and at times she feels too busy with her newly acquired care giving responsibilities. Ms. Lee has expressed much appreciation of all the support provided by the numerous professionals
affiliated on this case to her in her new role as caregiver. Ms. Lee has made a determination that she will go forward with a plan to adopt Paulo.