Changing the system

What was accomplished?

On the final episode of 150 days, we look at what happens to Theresa after her involvement with child protective services concludes. Families are supposed to leave the child welfare system better than they were when they arrived. But can that really be said for Theresa or her children?

Changing the system

Theresa's story isn't unique. Across the U.S., parents like her — the overwhelming majority poor, a disproportionate number nonwhite — are torn from their children long before other options are exhausted. The checks and balances that should protect them fail. On this episode, experts both local and national weigh in on how we can do better.

Azriel

Theresa's younger son Azriel goes back to Butler County to live with his aunt. His condition deteriorates rapidly, and he begins expressing thoughts of suicide. Theresa tries desperately to arrange therapy for him, but the agency appears to be dragging its heels. When it finally does act, the result is anything but what Theresa hoped.

The deal

Theresa is eager to fight the agency in court, but she doesn't sense the same enthusiasm from her court-appointed lawyer. The stakes are high: If she wins her next hearing, the case is over and her kids come home. But some vague wording in an Ohio law threatens her efforts before she even enters the courtroom.

Rylenn and Everly

Theresa's two daughters go to a foster home in Muskingum County, over an hour away from Glouster. Their description of the home immediately sets off warning bells for Theresa. When the agency appears to ignore her concerns, she takes matters into her own hands.