But the healing process the family so looked forward to was not to begin until much later.

"It was a pretty abusive situation," recalls Daniela, who was struggling to adjust to live without her parents and to learn a new language.  "My aunt was abusive both physically and emotionally."

And then, when she was 10, her aunt's boyfriend began to molest Daniela and that situation continued for months, until she told a friend's mom and the was promptly told to "shut up" about it by her aunt.  Two weeks later, Daniela fled and moved in with her trusted older brother.

But the Department of Economic Security wasn't comfortable with the situation, saying her brother was too young to care for an 11-year-old-girl.  After that, it was a series of shelters and foster homes for the youngster, who was determined to create some sense and stability in her life.

At 12, she was referred to Las Familias and has been receiving bi-weekly counseling ever since.

"They've helped me deal with the abuse and with facing everything that happened with my parents --- it's really nice to have someone to talk to," says Daniela, who has worked with the same counselor for the past three years.

Although earlier this year, Daniela tried living with her older sister, that didn't work out and this past summer she moved into a group home.  At school, she has thrived, participating in Folklorico --- a dancing group --- track, soccer and cheerleading.

This year, as a junior at Cholla High School, she is focusing on earning enough money to buy a car.

"I need to work and I need a car," she shrugs, determined to move forward.

OUR TOWN
CHILD ASSAULT PREVENTION PROJECT

$151,755

The Child Assault Prevention Project, a program of Our Town, received $151,755 from Angel Charity in 1985.  Our Town provides a two-year program in public elementary schools for prevention of sexual abuse through education.  The gift provided two years of funding in Tucson's elementary school system.

Adapted from Tucson Lifestyle
December 1998
Portrait Photos by David Fox