Once a month, foster parents are given a night to themselves as various churches plan an evening of fun for the kids, something we call Operation Relaxation. All ages are accepted. This is our way of supporting foster parents in the amazing work they do. Once a year, in lieu of a night out, we also host a Foster Parent Appreciation Luncheon to recognize and thank foster parents for being to these children what they so desperately need.
Imagine what a typical Operation Relaxation night looks like: Kids arrive to get checked in and are shuffled into their age groups, received by warm and eager church members. The older kids put on a puppet show for the younger kids starring Zazu the monkey. After snack time, the kids play relay races outside, or perhaps pet a lemur in the petting zoo. All go home with a proud craft of their very own. The toddlers sing songs and play with the toys in the toy box, learning to share and be kind. What better way to benefit kids and parents at the same time!
Three congregations in the 12th Circuit (Sarasota, Manatee, and DeSoto Counties) are currently participating to provide this respite care for foster children. We are looking for more congregations to join us in this effort. SAFE training (provided by BAANK) and background checks (provided by Safe Children Coalition) are required for all volunteers who work with the children.
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