When Candle entered the Early Childhood Court program in Pierce County, she was overwhelmed. Navigating the court system as a parent is complex enough, but without guidance, it felt impossible. “It was so confusing to navigate,” she said. “But with Julie and the team’s support, I was able to make it through to be with my kids today.”
From the beginning, her Early Childhood Court coordinator, Julie, stepped in with critical help. She didn’t just walk Candle through court proceedings, she made sure her children had what they needed to thrive: diapers, toys, food, clothing, and even support during potty training.
She supported us with everything my kids needed and supported me at the same time.
More Than Services. Real Connection.
Julie didn’t stop at court dates or checklists. She connected Candle to food banks, churches, and other local resources. She made sure visitation with her children happened in welcoming spaces, such as playrooms filled with toys and warmth.
Today, even after completing the program, Candle still hears from Julie. That ongoing connection reflects what Early Childhood Court programs aim to build: not just one-time solutions, but long-term, wraparound support for families working to reunify and rebuild.
To this day, I’m still checked in with by Julie and her amazing team.
Now, Candle is using her voice to push for expanded access to these programs through her support of House Bill SSB5149. She knows firsthand how powerful they can be, not just for parents, but also for the children they’re working to protect.
I want to ensure future families have the same opportunity I did.”
Like Candle, parents who’ve experienced substance use often report feeling judged by healthcare and child welfare systems. Our recent listening sessions with families like these across Washington state, show they deeply value peer support embedded early in services. Candle’s journey echoes these findings: early, empathic intervention paired with peer-like advocacy can shift not just outcomes, but lives.
