Respite

When Family Connection asks parents "how can we help you" one of the most common responses is "I need a Break".  The overwhelming stress and work needed to care for our children demands that we occasionally pull back and refresh ourselves, so when we step back into the caregiver role we can be energized and empowered.

For some it is a mom's night out. For others it's a novel, but for a growing number of parents it's a Respite Co-op or a Respite Benevolence Program from their local faith community.  The concept of Respite co-ops started in 1998 with the essential foundation that parents of children with special health care needs know best how to care for other parent's children who have special needs.

With the initial funding from the Developmental Disability Council in the Governors office and later a grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Faith In Action program, a wonderful model has been developed and currently implemented in 6 sites (click here for listings).

The co-op model is a wonderful collaboration between parents and faith communities.A group of approximately 8-15 parents agree to cooperate (Co-op) and share the care of their children. Parent volunteers are the "experts in child care for children with special needs".  One parent from each family serves only once every third or fourth co-op.   Local churches and childcare facilities provide facilities free of charge.  Parents, as lead volunteers, mentor other faith based community volunteers as they share the care of their children. Creative solutions were designed to address liability concerns.

Another helpful resource for families is "The Family Notebook for Respite." This is a family overview that was created by parents to help explain their child's needs to someone who may be providing childcare (respite) for their loved one. It is also a great letter of intent in the case that something may happen to you.