A place to call home

Nov 14, 2025 | Blog, Intercept

When Angela received a phone call one Monday evening, she didn’t realize how much her life would change. On the other end of the line was Jenna, a specialist from Youth Villages, explaining that her 16-year-old niece, Maya, needed somewhere safe to stay that night. Without a second thought, Angela said yes.

Angela had known Maya since she was a child. She even served as the flower girl in Angela’s wedding years ago. Though they weren’t especially close back then, Angela says now it’s clear; life had other plans for them.

When Jenna first visited Angela’s home, she explained that the Department of Children and Families had been involved with Maya’s family for a decade and was in the process of closing her case. Maya was referred to the Youth Villages Intercept program, which partners with families to help children remain safely at home whenever possible. However, Maya’s living conditions with her mother ultimately deteriorated to the point where it was no longer safe for her to live there.

At that point, Maya had not attended school for several years and was struggling with the lasting effects of trauma. She experienced abuse and neglect and often isolated herself in her room as a coping mechanism. She wasn’t receiving consistent medical or mental health care and had experienced periods of homelessness.

“It quickly became clear that Maya needed more than just a place to sleep,” Angela said. “She needed safety, stability and someone who would show up for her.”

Maya moved in with Angela permanently. Though becoming a full-time caregiver hadn’t been part of her life plan, she saw it as a calling. After recently navigating a divorce and a layoff, she said caring for Maya gave her a renewed sense of purpose.

When Maya first moved in, she was withdrawn and struggling with depression. That’s when Jenna began visiting twice a week, offering hands-on guidance and emotional support for both of them.

Jenna went above and beyond. She helped us create safety plans, set healthy boundaries and rebuild trust. She gave us the tools to start over.

- Angela

Together, they worked on small but meaningful goals like cooking new recipes, establishing routines and creating a safe, welcoming space for Maya in Angela’s home. Over time, Maya began to open up. She rediscovered her sense of self and even bonded with Angela’s sheepadoodle, Annie.

By late August, Angela officially became Maya’s legal guardian.

“It was just formality by then,” Angela said. “I already felt like her mom.”

With Jenna’s support, Angela enrolled Maya in the local high school, where she began ninth grade. “Seeing her excited for school again is something I’ll never forget,” Angela said.

Angela credits Youth Villages, and the Intercept program with helping them reach this turning point.

“Jenna isn’t just a specialist,” she said. “She’s a mentor, a guide and an advocate. I see a different side of Maya when Jenna’s here. She is more confident, more hopeful.”

Today, Maya is thriving. She’s engaged in therapy, rebuilding her confidence and finding joy in everyday moments. For Angela, the experience has brought its own transformation.

“I’ve found my purpose again,” Angela said. “Maya is healing, and I’m healing right along with her. We’re building a new life, one filled with hope.”