The study focused on the lives of 34 children sentenced to the CYA in 2000. The analysis revealed that the rate of use of the CYA by Fresno, Kings, Madera, Merced, and Tulare Counties generally exceeded that of counties with similar populations over the last decade. These counties’ high rate of unemployment, low per-capita income, and low tax revenues made it particularly difficult for them to fund programs such as county juvenile justice systems, which relied heavily on county general fund dollars. Juvenile court judges had no choice but to send large numbers of out-of-control youths to the Youth Authority. Most of the 34 children in the study had been the subject of referrals to Child Protective Services. Many had parents who were in and out of prison. Many were the children of drug addicts. Most had poor attendance and poor performance in elementary school. Mental health problems were prevalent. Most of the children because drug abusers and school dropouts. Agencies serving these children lacked organization to share information or plan jointly. The CYA now receives a distilled population who are likely to need expensive, specialized treatment in addition to education and vocational training. However, the CYA does not receive funding for such services. In addition, parole offices have few options for assisting parolees with complex needs. Findings indicated the need for advocacy for improvements in local social services and juvenile justice system and for improvements in CYA services. In addition, each community needs to continue to improve its ability to assess children’s problems and intervene early and comprehensively. Figures, list of web sites, list of sources not cited, and 28 references