New homes expand capacity of overnight respite care program to over 1,000 children each year
JAFCO has completed the construction of two new respite homes at the Children’s Ability Center, expanding their respite capacity threefold. JAFCO’s overnight respite program allows children with developmental disabilities to stay overnight, giving their parents a break and a moment to breathe while their children make friends and gain independence. The completion of the two new respites in addition to the one existing home will allow them to triple their respite capacity to over 1,000 children each year.
“With these two new respite houses, we can open our hearts to more incredible families in our community,” said JAFCO CEO Sarah Franco. “We may have built these houses, but it is the families and children of the JAFCO Children’s Ability Center who make them homes.”
The respite homes provide children with their own bedroom and bath, where they may stay overnight from 1 night to up to 2 weeks in a safe, comfortable environment that encourages them to grow and thrive.
“It is only due to the love, passion and generous support from our community that we are able to finally open these homes,” said JAFCO Executive Director Justin Kohlhagen. “The JAFCO Children’s Ability Center parents go through so much when caring for a child with developmental disabilities, and overnight respite allows them to take that well-deserved break to take care of themselves so that they can take care of their children.”
The nonprofit recently hosted the grand opening and ribbon cutting of the two new respite homes at the JAFCO Children’s Ability Center. Attendees enjoyed breakfast followed by a meaningful ceremony from JAFCO leaders, donors and those whose lives have been touched by JAFCO’s respite program. City of Sunrise Mayor Michael Ryan, Deputy Mayor Joseph Scuotto, Assistant Deputy Mayor Neil Kerch and Sunrise City Commissioner Jacqueline Guzman were among those in attendance.
In addition to the respite program, the Children’s Ability Center provides child enrichment activities and support to the entire family. The lives of more than 7,000 children and families in the community have been touched since the JAFCO Children’s Ability Center opened its doors 10 years ago.
About JAFCO:
JAFCO’s mission is to provide care, safety and support to children and their families within the Jewish community and beyond who are impacted by abuse, neglect, trauma, or developmental disabilities…giving every child a place to belong. Visit www.jafco.org.
