We Fought CPS to Protect Our Family — The System Is Broken

Jason Luhrs and his wife from Marion, Michigan, fought for custody of their niece and nephew after witnessing ongoing neglect and unsafe conditions due to the children's mother’s mental health issues and drug use. Despite multiple reports to Child Protective Services (CPS), action only occurred after serious incidents, including a suicide threat and substance abuse. Jason highlighted CPS’s disorganization, lack of communication between counties, and understaffing, which delayed the children receiving proper protection. The children are now safe under the Luhrs’ guardianship, but their story illustrates the urgent need for systemic reform in Michigan’s CPS system.