70 Families Celebrated at Heartwarming Family Reunification Day in Phoenix

Since January 2024, the Judicial Branch has successfully aided over 800 families in Maricopa County in their reunification efforts.

PHOENIX — The world of foster care often echoes with challenges, including substance abuse and domestic violence, which can fracture families. Yet, when reunification occurs, it stands as a remarkable achievement deserving celebration.

Maricopa County recently marked the 12th annual Family Reunification Day at Sky Zone Trampoline Park, honoring families who have triumphed over adversities that once led to their children entering foster care.

“For me, it’s really special,” shared Stephanie Macnab, who recently regained custody of her 18-month-old daughter, Luana. Macnab navigated two separate Department of Child Safety (DCS) cases. While she lost her rights to her first children, she maintains a solid relationship with them, as they are now cared for by her relatives.

Reflecting on her struggles with addiction over a decade, Macnab stated, “I did everything they asked me to do, and now I have full custody of her.” Her daughter was returned to her when she turned one.

“It took a lot of dedication and will… just self-will,” Macnab noted, attributing her newfound sobriety—two years this August—to her daughter. “I didn’t want to lose another child to the system.”

Ten-year-old Allie Webb-Hernandez expressed her gratitude for her mother, Whitney, who has been sober for two years after enduring 15 years of challenges. “DCS came into my life; I thought they ruined it… they saved my life,” Allie stated, beaming with hope for her future.

Over 70 families participated in this year’s event, celebrating achievements and resilience. Judge Lori Horn-Bustamante, presiding judge of the juvenile department in Maricopa County Superior Court, praised the efforts of families on their journey to reunification, stating, “It’s amazing to see all these families who worked hard and are back together.”

The process of family reunification is comprehensive, requiring parents to work closely with the court and case workers, which may include drug testing and counseling sessions.

For parents like Damaris Bojorquez, reuniting with her children stands as a testament to strength. “Thanks to the father of my kids, I gained the power to get my kids back,” she shared. Their journey acknowledges the collective effort and support received along the way.

This event culminated in a proclamation from Governor Katie Hobbs and certificates celebrating the families’ milestones. “There’s no going back,” Macnab concluded, marking this new chapter in her and her daughter’s lives.