From uncertainty to opportunity: A foster youth finds a trusted support system with Children and Family Services

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For many young people, having a trusted adult to turn to can make all the difference. For foster youth Nathan Reyes, that support came through San Bernardino County Children and Family Services (CFS).

Nathan’s childhood was marked by years of physical and emotional abuse. From a very young age, he was raised to believe that asking for help or seeking guidance was not an option. Trapped in an unhealthy environment for much of his life, he struggled to imagine a future beyond the difficult circumstances he faced.

At just 16 years old, Nathan reached a turning point. Recognizing that his home life was unhealthy, he found himself without a place to live after being asked to leave his home, despite apologizing to his parent. Suddenly, he was faced with overwhelming questions no teenager should have to answer alone: Who can I turn to? How can I build a better future for myself?

CFS became involved, and although Nathan was hesitant to accept help, he agreed to work with the department in hopes of creating a better life. Trust, however, did not come easily.

“All he wanted was someone to talk to, someone to hear his story,” said Jasmine Mason, social services practitioner II with Children and Family Services. “Having someone there to tell him, I’m here for you. I hear you. I see you. That kind of support was really big for him.”

By taking the time to hear Nathan’s story, Mason helped establish a foundation of trust that Nathan had never truly experienced before. That relationship became the beginning of a new chapter.

Through CFS, Nathan received more than just protection. He gained access to supportive adults, case management, counseling referrals, educational support, independent living resources, life-skills training, healthcare coordination and connections to housing and community programs designed to help foster youth successfully transition into adulthood.

CFS works every day to strengthen families, protect children and help youth achieve lasting stability. While child safety remains the agency’s highest priority, the department also focuses on family preservation whenever possible, connecting families with prevention services, parenting education, counseling, substance use treatment referrals, emergency assistance and community resources that help families remain safely together.

Nathan’s journey is a powerful reminder that CFS is about much more than responding to crises. It is about building relationships, restoring hope and empowering children and families with the tools and support they need to thrive.

CFS is here to help.

If you or someone you know needs support, wants to learn more about foster care or is interested in becoming a foster or resource family, contact CFS:

Children and Family Services
Phone: 909-658-1102
To report child abuse or neglect, please call (24/7): 1-800-827-8724 or visit cfs.sbcounty.gov.

Additional County Update News – July 9, 2026