Host Family 
At the core of the mission of Safe Families for Children is the host family who creates a safe place for children whose parents are in crisis. The host family practices biblical hospitality when they temporarily open their home to children without monetary reimbursement. Safe Families for Children may serve children of all ages, but each individual host family determines the profile of the children they are able to host in their home. Ideally, the host family will also develop a relationship with the partnering parents to provide ongoing support for the family even after the children return home. Host Families serve under the umbrella of a Safe Families church, which provides a supportive community for the Host Family. Click here to become a Host Family.

Family Coach
The role of Family Coach is crucial, and provides an opportunity to minister in a variety of ways as the Family Coach facilitates the relationship between the partnering parents and the Host Family during a hosting. Their two primary areas of ministry are 1) supporting the host family and ensuring the well-being of the children in care and 2) providing support and mentor-ship to the partnering parent(s). Family Coaches help facilitate visits, and coordinate communication among the Family Coach Supervisor, the host family, and the partnering parents. Family Coaches serve under the umbrella of a Safe Families church, which provides a supportive community for the Family Coach. Click here to become a Family Coach.

Family Friend
Family Friends come alongside the host family and/or partnering parents to provide encouragement and support during the time of hosting which could include, but is not limited to: Babysitting – Providing temporary care of children to assist host families during a placement. Transportation – Transporting children to doctor’s appointments, school, home visits, etc. Meals – Providing a meal to a host family who is having a difficult placement in order to encourage them and relieve some stress. Support – Encouraging a host family and/or partnering parent with prayer support during a difficult placement. Family Friends serve under the umbrella of a Safe Families church as part of a supportive community. Volunteers working in direct contact with children are required to complete an approval process. Click here to be a Family Friend.

Resource Friend
Resources for Circles of Supports: Most children come into a host home with very few supplies and possessions, and host families are not reimbursed for any expenses they incur. Therefore, the donation of children’s items, including diapers and formula, are very helpful. Resources for partnering parents: At times, placing parents need the support of material resources to help them get ahead. Skills or professional services: Partnering Parents and/or Host Families benefit from the skills and services that Resource Friends are able to provide.
Some examples could be:

• Therapy/counseling for couples, individuals, or children
• Hair support services (barber, ethnic hair care support, etc)
• Doctors, Dentists, Nurse Practitioners willing to volunteer their services
• Moving company services
• Automobile repair/mechanic services
• HR skills: interviewing, resume writing, etc.
• Budgeting and Financial Stability Assistance

We keep a list of resource friends whom we notify when a particular need arises. Click here to be a Resource Friend.