The crisis nurseries provide respite care for children ages 0-5. The program is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and may be utilized by families for up to 30 days. Respite may be planned in advance (such as for a scheduled hospitalization) or provided during an emergency (such as when temporary homelessness or domestic violence occurs).
During the day, the program operates as a structured day care program Child care workers provide infants with stimulation and work with toddlers and preschoolers on their cognitive, communication, motor, physical and social development. At night the program focuses on the basic care needs of the children including quiet activities, bathing and preparing for bed. Meals served include breakfast, lunch, snack, dinner and evening snack. Staff child ratio is 1:4.
Support services provided at the nurseries include parent education, family counseling, child development assessments and referrals for follow-up and ongoing assistance.
Eligibility
The program is voluntary. Families may be referred by an agency or self referred. Clients may walk in or telephone to receive services.
