Raising a child affected by disability can be
extremely stressful. The demands are high, the
grief process is real, and the stress placed on
marriages can be daunting. In the midst of these
potentially destructive factors, parents find
themselves in need of rest, but unable to find
safe and loving care for their children. Without
that care, parents easily find themselves
exhausted and overwhelmed. Fewer than 15% of
churches in our valley have made intentional
plans to welcome these families. As a result,
most are raising their children outside of the
care of a loving church family.
The Green Pastures Family Support program was
established in 2003 to support these families in
every way we can, and to help churches make
adaptations and provide programs that help these
families feel welcomed and valued.
Green Pastures Family Support Mission
Statement
The mission of the Green Pastures Family
Support Program is to support families raising
children with disabilities in order that
- families will be more likely to keep
these children at home and thriving during
their formative years
- marriages will be nurtured and
strengthened
- churches will be encouraged and equipped
to embrace these families and demonstrate
Christ’s love for them
- our words and actions will communicate
to the community at large that the Lord has
created these children with value and
purpose
The Family Support Program will:
- meet individually with families in order
to share resources and encouragement
-provide resources, encouragement, and
training to churches as they consider ways
to embrace individuals affected by
disability
- partner with local churches to provide
respite and other outreach activities to
families affected by disability
- coordinate in-home respite for families
touched by disability
In-home Respite Workers Needed:
Please consider being trained to offer
in-home care for families affected by
disabilities so that their parents can attend
appointments, spend time together as a couple,
or do whatever is needed to find rest and
refreshment. Many parents waiting in hope that
we will find a compassionate worker for their
children
Getting involved in the in-home respite
program is not hard:
- Call the Family Support hotline
(408-517-0931) or send Debbie an email
- Ask all your questions
- Arrange for training with Debbie
- Get referred to a family which fits your
time and experience preferences
- Have fun!!
Debbie Lillo, Director of Family Support,
would be happy to arrange a training time for
you, or for your small group. Email Debbie at
dlillo@mindspring.com to find out more
Debbie's Support Calendar and Resources
Visit
the Family Support resources site to find out more
about the events and resources available for
families affected by disabilities, volunteers,
and churches
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