Rebecca Kirch, Program Coordinator for 6:8, spoke to the Optimists on July 19th about a program 6:8 is considering to help families facing short-term emergencies keep their children out of the foster care system and their families together.
The program, Safe Families For Children, has been around since 2003, has a 95% success rate in reuniting families, and is in 100 cities in 30 states, plus internationally. Its mission is to host children and support families who have nowhere to turn when facing unmanageable circumstances. It provides a network of support while parents get back on their feet. Safe, secure, temporary homes are provided to children with fully-vetted host families. Parents maintain full custody of their children.
The circle of support provided to families includes screened and approved host families (the average stay is six weeks;) family coaches; family friends to provide transportation, meals, and babysitting; resource friends who provide goods and services; and ministry leads to promote and facilitate volunteer services. While 6:8 recognizes the need in the community, it is still exploring if the necessary resources are available in Sauk Prairie. To learn more about the program contact Rebecca Kirch at 6:8 or visit www,safefamilieswi.org.
The Optimists meet on the first, third, and fifth Wednesdays of each month. Visitors are always welcome.
Pictured, left to right, Optimist members Joy Pulsfus and Jeff Boll flank Rebecca Kirch of 6:8 at the July 19 Optimist meeting.
