Problem

There are approximately six million children with disabilities living in the United States. Families who have children with disabilities and chronic illnesses experience economic hardship, family instability, and social and emotional strain to a greater degree than other families. Unfortunately, this strain can lead many couples to divorce, domestic violence, or child abuse and neglect if the proper supports are not in place.

The Gift

Your gift will connect a disabled child with the love and caring support of a senior volunteer A stipend of $40 will enable a Family Friends volunteer to visit a family weekly for three months, including the volunteer's transportation, support and training costs. The Family Friends Program taps the experience, skills, caring and wisdom of older adults to benefit families who have children with disabilities and chronic illnesses. Volunteers, 55 and older, visit families weekly in their homes to offer hands-on support to the children and their families and to facilitate their connections with the larger community. Volunteers and families typically stay together for many years creating a bond that becomes reciprocal in nature over time.Through Family Friends we have learned that older volunteers can bring much needed love and understanding to families and become strong advocates on such issues as parenting, education, healthcare, and social services.