Dear Abby: Sudden appearance of a child in need complicates my life at 62

Greetings, Abby

Child Protective Services in another state recently contacted me about a great-nephew that I was unaware of. Naturally, parents hoped that the ten-year-old youngster would be placed or receive financial assistance. I’m sixty-two. I am unable to provide for him financially or physically.

The boy is the grandson of my brother. She grabbed the kids and vanished after my brother and his wife got divorced. For 35 years, I haven’t heard from or had any information on my niece and nephew. This child is in need right now. Would it be wise for me to request permission to write to this child? I could give him letters and birthday and Christmas gifts, but I couldn’t provide him with full-time care. GREAT-AUNT CONFUSED

DEAR GREAT-AUNT:

Your letter is lacking a great deal of detail. Where are the mother and father of this boy? Are they dead or in prison? Where is the child’s grandfather, your brother? The type of living arrangement he ends up in may determine whether to reach out to this recently found relative and give him cards and presents.

Additionally, since it might be a fraud, are you positive the individual who contacted you is indeed from Child Protective Services? Until you have consulted other family members and confirmed the accuracy of the information you were given, take no action.

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Abigail Van Buren, better known as Jeanne Phillips, is the author of Dear Abby. Her mother, Pauline Phillips, began the company. For more information, visit www.DearAbby.com or send an email to P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

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