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 May I choose what ages of children I care for?
Yes. After taking into account your own family dynamics and your experience, you may advise us what ages of children you feel most comfortable with. After you begin to take children, you may adjust your specifications as necessary.
How often can I expect to be called to shelter a child?
The population of the Children's Shelter varies. Summer is typically the busiest, while the Holidays are usually the slowest. Other factors that may affect how often we call are the ages of children you take, the number of children you are licensed for and your own preferences.
Do school-age children continue to go to school?
The majority of school-age children continue to attend their own schools. If it is determined safe for a child to go to school, we will transport. If it is not safe, a tutor will visit the shelter home for an hour each day.
What is the reimbursement rate?
The rate for a basic child is $13 per day. This is a child who has no unusually difficult medical or behavior issues. A specialized child is one who has significant medical or behavioral needs. The rate for these children is $16.75 per day.
The reimbursement is non-taxable. The reimbursement covers food and shelter. We provide for clothes, shoes, diapers, wipes, medical care, and gifts (birthday and Christmas).
What if I would like to take a vacation?
We try to be as flexible as possible with our shelter families. If you need time off for any reason please call our offices and let us know the time frame you will be unavailable.
What about church attendance?
Shelter children may attend church with the shelter family. The only exception would be the rare circumstance in which the natural parents request that their child not attend a specified denomination.
What about confidentiality?
We are careful to maintain the privacy and confidentiality of our shelter families. The names of our families are only available to each other and professionals involved with the child.
Why is there such a need for shelter families?
As our county grows, unfortunately, so do the problems, including child neglect and abuse. Compassionate families are always needed to provide safety and kindness to children in difficult situations.
Shelter Families Say...
- "Shelter is always just a phone call away. I know that I can call any time for suggestions or for someone to talk with."
- "My own children tell me they feel good about the difference they make in the life of a child."
- "Some of these children will never leave our hearts. I believe that the love we have for them will stay with them."
- "One of the things I have learned is that all children are the same."
- "The children are a bit unsure at first, but after a few days they are giving us hugs and telling us they love us."
- "Unconditional love is the most important attribute to have."
Shelter Family Supports
- Offices are open 24-hours with trained staff available
- On-going training
- Mentoring
- Holiday Parties
- Gift Certificates and; Tickets to Events
- Respite Care
- Starter kits
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