Seattle’s Child is proud to partner with the state Department of Children, Youth and Families Strengthening Families Washington to honor outstanding caregivers doing important work on behalf of children. Throughout February, we’ll introduce you to Unsung Heroes from around the state. Enjoy their stories.Â
Aura Neyra, Everett
Aura is an incredible example of parental resiliency and strong social connections. When her 4-year-old granddaughter, Alayah entered dependency in February of 2024, Aura made the tough decision to leave her life in California and come to Washington in order to provide kinship care for her beloved granddaughter.
Aura’s sister Claudia and their mother Yolanda have been fierce financial and emotional supporters of Aura and Alayah, taking turns coming to Washington for weeks at a time to allow Aura to return home to her other children — including a 16-year-old in high school and a 22-year-old with autism.
Aura balances her own medical needs, the finances of living in two states at once, and the emotional stress and heartbreak of watching her daughter struggle with addiction while missing out on her son’s final high school years. I very strongly believe that Aura (as well as Yolanda & Claudia) deserves to be recognized for her unwavering support and dedication to her granddaughter.
She has made a tremendous amount of sacrifices and continues to demonstrate her commitment by being present and involved in Alayah’s needs. Alayah is so fortunate to have her and this CASA is grateful to be able to witness their strong bond.
— Nominator: Ashley Anderson
NOTE: Seattle’s Child is running these Unsung Heroes stories unedited, as written by the people who nominated them, in keeping with the DCYF Unsung Hero process.
More Unsung Heroes:
Noriko Kim: a second mother to many
