Andino Medina | FIRSTHAND: Living in Poverty
Andino Medina | FIRSTHAND: Living in Poverty
Andino Medina is determined to regain custody of his two-year-old daughter. But first he will need to contend with the criminal justice system and DCFS. Born in the Marquette Park neighborhood to a tight-knit, hard-working family, Andino’s lifelong struggles with addiction led to a cycle of crime and incarceration. During his most recent stay in jail, Andino’s girlfriend gave birth to Eva, who has given him a renewed sense of purpose. In order to get her back, he’ll need to pay off a mountain of court fees, and find the affordable, stable housing that DCFS requires. But he has a fighting chance, thanks to a social service agency and an exciting new job.