Family Support

Contact Us

Call our STRONG Families staff to ask questions or set up a time to meet and talk in person

Every Parent Needs Support

Every parent, no matter their circumstances, needs a community of people around them. We want you to know that you are not alone. If you are experiencing a tough situation and you have nowhere else to turn, STRONG Families for Children can help. Our certified Host Families are volunteers who will provide a loving and safe home for your children, while you are given the time and tools you need to move forward.

There is no cost to you to use this service, we just ask that you stay active in improving your situation. We want you and your children to be reunited as soon as you are ready.

All volunteers pass a background check, go through training, and pass a home safety inspection in order to host children in their homes.

It is important to know that STRONG Families is NOT foster care. While your children are with a Host Family, you still have full custody. You can ask to have your child returned home at any time.

What STRONG Families Offers: 

• A safe, temporary place for your children
to stay.
• Frequent opportunities to connect with your
children while with volunteer Host Families.
• A community to help reach your goals.
• Resources to help you get back on your feet.
• Ongoing support after your children
return home

Is STRONG Families Right for You?

• Are you struggling and need help?
• Do you need a safe, temporary home for
your children to stay?
• Are you willing to work towards your goals?
• Are you committed to reuniting with your
children as soon as possible?

If you answered yes to all these questions,
contact us today!

Frequently Asked Questions About Our STRONG Families for Children Program

We recognize that this may be a very challenging time for you as a parent. You may be nervous, worried, relieved, or any other mix of emotions. Parents often have questions about this type of help, and we want to reassure you. If you have other questions or want to see if we can help you, please reach out to us at 602-396-2720.

How soon can I get help?

In most cases, we will contact you right away during normal business hours, M-F 830am-5pm. We cannot provide emergency hosting, but are usually able to schedule your intake the same day or within 1-2 business days, and begin a hosting soon after that. Please start by filling out the form below.

Can I change my mind?

Of course! STRONG Families is a voluntary program. You do not give up any of your rights or power. Parents sign a Power of Attorney that gives temporary authority to the Host Family to care for your child(ren) and make decisions on your behalf.

Am I giving up my rights to my child(ren)?

No, you are not losing any of your rights or power. You keep full custody of your children at all times. You will sign a Power of Attorney that gives temporary authority to the Host Family to care for your child(ren) and make decisions on your behalf. You are encouraged to participate in decisions regarding their care during the hosting, and the Host Family will always keep you informed about their needs. We are here to support you and walk along side you during a difficult time.

How often may I speak with or see my child(ren)?

Our hope is that you will plan visits with your children in coordination with the Host Family at least weekly. We encourage daily phone calls whenever possible. Host Families are volunteers, so we work together to ensure arrangements are convenient for everyone involved.

I have multiple children, will they stay together?

Our goal is to keep siblings together. However, most of our Host Families are only able to care for 1-3 children at a time. If your family is larger, we will likely need to arrange more than one Host Family to meet the need.

How will my child(ren) be taken care of? School, daycare, medical needs, etc.?

During the intake, we will discuss your child(ren)’s needs, routines, upcoming appointments, etc., including school and childcare arrangements. We will try to match you with a Host Family that allows your child(ren) to remain in their same school or daycare. If we are not able to accommodate this, we’ll work with you and the Host Family to make other arrangements.

STRONG Families has a strict discipline policy that does not allow Host Families to use any form of physical punishment or shame techniques. Your child(ren) will not be spanked or physically punished while with the Host Family.

Will someone check on my child(ren)

Our staff will visit the Host Family’s home within 72 hours of the start of the hosting and will see and talk with your child(ren) during the visit. Staff also maintain regular contact with the Host Family during a hosting to ensure the safety and well-being of your child(ren).

What kind of help should I expect?

Our goal is to walk along side you during a difficult time and work with you to meet your family’s needs. During the intake we will talk about those needs and brainstorm resources from the community and within Christian Family Care that will help meet those needs. You will set goals you want to accomplish while partnering with STRONG Families. You will also be provided a Family Friend, another volunteer, who can encourage you, be a listening ear, and brainstorm resources.

Can I meet the Host Family first?

Every effort is made to have our staff, you, and the Host Family meet together for the exchange of the child(ren). Depending on the timing of the hosting, we may be able to arrange an introductory meeting in advance of the hosting. Likewise, we recognize that in some situations, your situation may necessitate our staff picking up the children and transporting to the Host Family without you meeting them.

Why are Host Families willing to help?

Our Host Families have felt called to serve and love others. They are volunteers and are not paid for caring for your child(ren) or being a Family Friend. They believe that everyone deserves to have community and they want to be a part of your life and support your child(ren) during this time.

STRONG Families is not foster care and we do not arrange adoptions. Christian Family Care does have these programs, but they are separate from STRONG Families. Our staff can discuss with you if you feel you may need one of those services.

What is a typical Host Family like?

Our Host Families live all over the Valley and they have willing hearts to open their home and lives to you and your child(ren). Host Families may be married or single, have children of their own or no children. STRONG Families does require all our Host Families and Family Friends to be of Christian faith.

Are Host Families licensed foster families?

No, Host Families are not licensed foster families. Some of them have been licensed previously or may be certified to adopt and waiting to be matched. They understand that STRONG Families is voluntary, temporary care and will never ask you about adoption. Host Families do go through a similar process as licensed foster families in preparation to host, including training, background checks, home safety checks, and interviews.


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