Thursday, June 25, 2009

CRPC Jumps on Board With '4KIDS' By: Robin Revier

"For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." -Jer. 29:11
CRPC Jumps on Board With '4KIDS'

We are excited to announce our new affiliation with 4KIDS, an incredible organization that primarily ministers to the needs of children in crisis situations.

It's hard to fathom that every day right here in our own communities, 8-12 children are removed from their homes due to abuse, abandonment, or neglect? That is a staggering statistic! 4KIDS is an organization whose primary goal is to meet the needs of these victims. Since 1999, they have provided housing and care for thousands of foster children.
1 John 3:17 - "But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother In need, yet closes his heart against him, How does God's love abide in him?"


There are many facets to this ministry, as the journey through foster care is just that...a journey!
The following is the order in which each case is addressed:

Safeplace 4KIDS-

This particular ministry meets the immediate needs of the child upon removal of the home. As you can imagine, this is a most sensitive situation so the atmosphere caters to the emotional distress that follows. Safeplace 4KIDS is staffed by trained volunteers and employees who are passionate about alleviating the terror and fear that accompanies a child who is so uncertain of his/her future.

Placement In A Foster Family-

Locating the appropriate foster family is the primary function of this department. This is not always an easy task, and many difficult challenges can come into play, such as shortages of foster homes, age issues, is the child alone or part of a sibling group, to name a few.


Residential Homes-

4KIDS has established a number of 'family style' homes to care for these children at various stages of their journey. These homes are staffed by dedicated individuals (houseparent's) who are prepared, and eager to extend the love and support that these kids so desperately need.

Permanent Solutions-

4KIDS offers classes and support services to biological parents in the hope that these families may be reunited. Unfortunately, reunification is not always possible and in those cases, 4KIDS will assist in placing children with loving adoptive families.

Independent Living Program-Spirit of Success Institute-

If foster children reach the age of 18 without being adopted or reunited with their biological family, they are often lacking even the most basic life skills and social support. The 4KIDS Independent Living Program-Spirit of Success Institute, provides them with an entire staff, and volunteers to guide them on their journey into adulthood.


Some Interesting Facts-
As of 4/30/09 4KIDS had 149 kids in their care. That is a 32% increase over the 110 kids in their care as of 4/30/08. What is really interesting is that operating costs came down 8% over the same period. God is doing amazing things in, with, and through this ministry; not the least of which is engineering a new partnership between CRPC and 4KIDS.


Answering The Call-
If you believe in your heart that God is calling you to be a part of this ministry and you'd like to learn more, please log on to the 4KIDS website at: http://www.4kidsofsfl.org/
You might also consider attending the 'Vision Tour' on July 2, from 12-2 p.m. at the 4KIDS of South Florida office, 827 S State Road 7 # 1 B, North Lauderdale, FL (954) 979-7911 (behind 'Second Chance' thrift store on 441.)


May God give you wisdom and discernment as you prayerfully consider your role in this vital ministry.
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go, I will guide you with my eye.
-Psalm 32:8


For further inquiries concerning this outreach, please contact- Chickie Alexander @ 954-334-5069 or email at: CAlexander@crpc.org

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