We are a movement fueled by compassion to keep children safe and families intact in Lane County. Through Host Families, Family Friends, and Family Coaches, we temporarily host children and provide a network of support to families in crisis while they get back on their feet. Common crisis includes homelessness, medical issues, domestic violence, incarceration and substance abuse treatment.
This program is often a better option than foster care and ensures that parents can maintain full custody and contact with their children without getting the state involved.
We know how hard it can be to ask for help. Remember that asking for help is a sign of strength and you can be on the road to a much stronger future.
93% of families who use the program remain in tact
You Maintain Parental rights
You inherit a community and mentor so you are stronger than ever before
How Does it Work?
Parents in need voluntarily approach SFFC through a self-referral or other referral sources. They can opt to reunify with their children at any time and never lose custody of their children.
Host families are recruited on an ongoing basis and undergo an application and screening process (background check, home study, references.)
Family Friends support parents in need by befriending, coaching, and offering moral support until their situation has begun to normalize, thus helping them improve their parenting and home environment.
Throughout the hosting arrangement, Family Coaches offer emotional and tangible support to families in need and host families. The family coaches work with parents in crisis to develop goals and visit the host families’ homes regularly to offer guidance and support.
Why Safe Families?
While Foster Care is necessary in some instances, we are finding that in many cases, foster care is not the best solution for the family. Once the state gets involved it often takes much longer to reunite the child with their biological family.
Kids Returning Home
90%
Safe Families
51%
Foster Care
Average length away from Home
27
Days
Safe Families
702
Days
Foster Care
Nationwide Average
Testimonial
“Safe Families kept my family together. When I had no one and nowhere else to turn, they kept my kids safe while I got back on my feet.”
– Dasha, mom of 2
Resources
Testimonials |
Listen to the stories of other families in similar situations who found hope and help with Safe Families |
Parenting Classes |
Check out these helpful, free, innovative parenting classes and resources |
Resources |
Take a look at the resources in Lane County that can help you get back on your feet |
