Hearts and Homes began providing respite care to families going through a crisis in order to respond to the concerns of foster parents that children were coming into foster care because of a lack of childcare alternatives for single parents. The goal of the Crisis Care program is to prevent unnecessary family disruption. Today, Hearts and Homes works with other agencies in the valley that respond to domestic violence in order to provide over 500 hours of respite care a year to families affected by domestic violence or in danger of being affected by domestic violence.
The Respite and Crisis Care Service provided by Hearts and Homes offers short-term emergency crisis care for families experiencing severe stress, parental illness, work crisis, mental health crisis, domestic violence, or who need child care during medical appointments, court appearances, or counseling appointments. Families needing a “time out” respite to avoid possible abusive situations are also served. This program is an effort toward alleviating parental stress while providing safe, quality, non-judgmental care for infants and children.
Parents who benefit most from this program are those who have no extended family nearby and who do not have friends who can adequately care for their children during these times of stress. Knowing that your child or children are in a safe and loving environment can ease the burden while parents attend to appointments that will make the family stronger.
Hearts and Homes maintains a listing of carefully screened care providers. Carers are experienced in the provision of quality care for infants and children. They go through a background check, provide references, have adequate liability and fire insurance, are in good health, and have their home approved for safety and adequate space. In addition, all providers are certified in First Aid and CPR and have a current certificate from the Red Cross. Providers do receive nominal payment. Rates depend on the number of children cared for and the time period.
The Respite and Crisis Care Service is provided free of charge to families needing this service. Referrals come from County Health Services, Bozeman Deaconess Hospital, Child and Family Services, Victims Witness Program, the Guardian Ad Litem program as well as other family agencies.
Jane’s Story – I was at my breaking point. My soon to be ex-husband was working out of town and would not come home and I had no-one to help with my two boys. I needed to find an attorney and get my life in order. I was given information about Hearts & Homes, and called to ask for assistance. They helped me with 2 days of crisis care for my boys. I was able to go to appointments for help, rest a little, and focus on the things I had to do for my boys.
For further information and intake appointments call Hearts and Homes at 406-585-8544, Monday thru Friday, 9:00am until 4:00pm.