PITTSFIELD, Mass. — For many families involved with the Department of Children and Families, the first feeling is often fear of their child being removed from the home.

 

In reality, its goal is the opposite.

 

Last week, families, attorneys, social workers, and agency staff gathered at the 18 Degrees Family Resource Center to honor four families who overcame obstacles, such as addiction, successfully navigated the system, and were ultimately reunited with their children.

 

According to the event flyer, since 2010, the child welfare community has recognized June as Family Unification Month, formerly Family Reunification Month, to honor families working to strengthen and reunify their families, as well as the advocates who support them and help prevent family separation.

 

Speaking at the podium, some parents reflected on the negative perceptions they once had of DCF – views that changed as they confronted their struggles, persevered, and worked with the agency to access support and become better parents.

 

The setting of the celebration reflected the theme of new beginnings, as the name 18 Degrees symbolizes the height of the sun on a new day, which is filled with new opportunities and possibilities, said Stephanie Steed, 18 Degrees president and CEO. 

 

"It is where the change from darkness to light happens, and all those things are just really symbolic and really a part of everyone's process," she said. 

 

"So, when you have a belief that there's more light in your day than darkness, you can really tap into that belief of possibilities of hope in a new beginning." 

 

Being a parent is one of the hardest jobs in the world. Every parent faces challenges and needs support, but not everyone has a support system to lean on, Judge Joan McMenemy said. 

 

People face a myriad of struggles that are incredibly difficult to overcome, whether it’s mental health or substance issues, but there is always hope and support, she said. 

 

"We don't have all the resources that I think we could use here in the Berkshires to help support families, but the resources that we do have are outstanding," McMenemy said, highlighting resources including family resource centers, Child Care of the Berkshires, legal support, the Brien Center, Berkshire Connections, and more. 

 

It’s not an easy path, but with bravery, strength, and perseverance, a new journey is possible, speakers said. 

 

"If I can do it, they can do it," said Nathan Hunt, a single father who was reunited with his children after overcoming addiction. 

 

Hunt was very transparent about his past with substance use, which led to his children living with their grandmother, and it took a jail sentence, hard work, and faith in God to overcome.