What is Safe Families for Children?

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The Safe Families for Children program is a network of qualified volunteers who have a heart for youth and provide loving respite homes where children can be placed in times of crisis such as illness, incarceration, homelessness, substance abuse or domestic violence (dangerous situations cannot be accepted due to the safety of our volunteers). All our volunteers are prompted solely by compassion and a heart for youth. They are screened, trained, and serve without compensation.
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What's the problem?

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With the nation's economy in decline and housing and job loss on the rise, there has been an increase in conflict and dysfunction within family units. As a result, many children are without love and basic needs. Many of these children however, fall between a gap of resources, leaving them without options. It is out of desperation that these children and youth turn to the streets, which can result in drug/alcohol abuse, sex trade, and isolation. Out of this growing concern and great need for intervention, New Growth was formed.

How Does New Growth's "Safe Families Respite Care"  Work?

  • A Parent, guardian, teacher or child contacts New Growth Ministries or Safe Families for Children and requests assistance.
  • If the child needs respite care, the biological family (or legal guardian) meets with New Growth's Family Coach and fills out appropriate paperwork.  The Host Family and biological family sign a contract.
  • Generally within 12 to 24 hours, New Growth invites the child to stay with a specific Host Family.
  • A team that includes the Host Family, Family Friends and Resource Families meet the child's needs.
  • The biological family or legal guardian receives support when appropriate and New Growth's team stays in close contact with the biological family or legal guardian throughout the child's stay.
  • When the agreed upon time frame has ended the Family Coach contacts the biological family or legal guardian and arranges for the child to return.
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Immediate Crisis for Overnight Respite Care
​Safe Families for Children
Teri Alexander
Phone: 503-580-4672
Email: safefamilies@ccswv.com
Online referrals: www.safe-families.org 
(click on “refer-a-family in need”)