By Anita Green, child welfare specialist IV, Latimer County

Recently, there were seven children, from ages one to 12, that were placed in OKDHS custody and brought to our office. The whole office was awesome while the children were here from 2 p.m. until 7p.m. Sonja offered to go get the kids something to eat (even though they said they weren’t hungry) and Shirley manned the front desk while Sonja went to get five foot long submarine sandwiches. Nichol offered to help with the kids and this was greatly appreciated when short breaks were needed. The baby only had one bottle and Nichol went to her own home and brought back clothes and bottles for the baby. Nichol also helped in putting ointment on a couple of the children who had sunburns.

The children were in the big conference room so they would be more comfortable. Sonja set up the DVD player and played children’s videos for the children to watch. All staff were very understanding about the children being in the office even though they periodically made some noise as the younger ones wanted to run while out of the big conference room. 

My Child Welfare group has always helped each other when something like this happens in our office but Family Support personnel also asked if there was anything they could do to help and that’s always helpful to our group to know and feel their support. 

I’ve always said how much I appreciate Tracey and he again showed what a trooper he is by staying with us even though he had intended to leave after training. He also assisted in transporting children to one of the foster homes.

All in all, it was a hectic day but it was made easier with everyone’s support. Our job in child welfare is rough at times but it’s always nice to know that we can access our co-workers if help is needed.