A program launched by local churches like Genesis of Petoskey, Community Reformed Church of Charlevoix, and Petoskey Church of Christ, is designed to be an in-between for a family that may need additional support. The organization helps a family in crisis by taking the children into their house for a short stay.
Known as Safe Families for Children of Emmet and Charlevoix counties, leaders of the group are starting to prepare families, and are looking for more volunteers.
“It’s about providing a temporary relief for families in crisis. So for example, in my family, if a crisis happens, I have plenty of families and friends that can help us out. But there are people who don’t have that support, so we want to provide that in the community,” said Candice Weirs, a member of the team that launched the program.
Weirs mentioned an example where a parent might need a medical treatment, and has no one who could watch their children for the few days while they recover. Another example is if a parent may suddenly be looking for a new house or apartment, but has nowhere for the children to stay while looking.
“And unlike a foster program, it’s much more voluntary. The families can retain their power and their voice. It’d be my goal that we’d have enough families around the community who could keep the child in the same school so that the child can avoid a disruption,” she said.
Currently the organization has one family in Petoskey and one family, Richard and Janet May, in Charlevoix.
The Mays are looking forward to opening up their home for a family in need. As active volunteers, they have helped orphans and families around the world, including in Haiti and Africa. But during the summer, while home in Charlevoix, they’re excited to be able to help families in the community.
“We both feel blessed, and we want to help where there’s a need,” said Richard. “It’s a good fit where we can still help while we’re at home.”
As part of the approval program, families like the Mays are subject to a background check and homes are inspected to make sure the environment is safe for young children.
“We thought the process was really easy. They just come to make sure the house has safe windows, and everything” said Janet.
She hoped the idea of background checks and an approval process doesn’t discourage anyone who’s interested. Though she added that since they are used to volunteering, she understands how some may feel intimidated.
The Mays have yet to take on a family since joining Safe Families, which only recently began approving families to participate. But they hope to also encourage other families and volunteers to help out.
“This is all voluntary, it’s not court imposed. It’s as simple as someone saying I need help and could you help do that. And it’s not just for the children, volunteers could help mentor or guide the parents through whatever their crisis is,” said Richard.
Janet added that she’s anxious and excited to help when she can. Since the two have grandchildren, she said they already have a lot of toys and supplies.
“I’m really excited. I’m ready,” she said. “It will be interesting to see how much the program is used. Once it gets going, I think it’ll be a good thing.”
Source: Charlevoix Courier