Bernard's Story

Bernard was 15-years old when our case was filed, and he first entered foster care at age three. He re-entered at age 10, He experienced flashbacks and nightmares stemming from trauma he endured. DHS has failed to address his mental health needs. Within the last five years, he’s been in 12 to 15 foster homes and seven facilities. 

Bernard is a transgender youth who identifies as male. Despite that, DHS placed him in all-girls facility. He is now in a minimally refurbished juvenile detention center, secured in what was once a cell, without proper medication, therapy, or supports.