Grief, Grace, and the Power of Community

Over the Fourth of July holiday, while many of us were celebrating with family and friends, devastating flooding swept through parts of Texas, displacing families, damaging homes, and once again reminding us how quickly life can change. My mama heart has hurt watching the coverage, as parents have endured unthinkable tragedy, families have been torn apart, and still there are so many missing.

These days, it feels like the heartbreak never stops. Every time we turn on the news, it’s another wildfire, another storm, another flood, another tragedy. And here in Louisiana, we are in the heart of hurricane season, watching the radar a little more often and preparing ourselves emotionally and practically for what might come.

It’s heavy. It’s exhausting. And it can start to feel like the weight of the world is just too much to carry. For children in foster care, there is an added layer of complexity when disaster strikes that many people may not realize. These are kids who already face uncertainty on a daily basis. When a storm rolls in, their stability is even more fragile. They may be moved abruptly, lose contact with siblings or supportive adults, or experience heightened anxiety and fear. Caseworkers are overwhelmed, caregivers are managing their own crises, and many supports fall through the cracks. Whether a child is in foster care or not, no one is immune to the fear and loss disasters can bring. But for those already living in fragile situations, that loss can be even more destabilizing.

But even in the middle of that weight, CASA volunteers continue to show up. When disaster strikes, children in foster care are some of the most vulnerable. Schools close, placements shift, and communication breaks down. But CASA volunteers keep calling, keep visiting, and keep asking: Where is this child? Are they safe? What do they need right now?

Disasters don’t pause the trauma children are experiencing. In fact, they often deepen it. And while systems scramble to respond, CASA volunteers provide something extraordinary: consistency. A voice. A connection. Someone who doesn’t forget.

The recent flooding in Texas is a powerful reminder that our neighbors, and sometimes we ourselves, are one storm away from crisis. We hold those families in our hearts, and we grieve with them as they search for stability and healing. It also reminds us of the power of community, compassion, and showing up for one another. That’s what CASA is all about.

To every volunteer, staff member, and supporter who continues this work even when the world feels heavy, thank you. You are not just helping children survive; you are reminding them that they are not alone.

Let’s keep preparing, supporting, and holding space for those who need us. And let’s not forget to take care of ourselves in the process.

With respect and gratitude,

Amanda Moody

Louisiana CASA Executive Director