Supporting Families and Children: Inside the Child Well-Being Ministry

Children and families navigating the foster care system often face challenges that extend beyond the immediate circumstances. At Citizen Church, our Child Well-Being (CWB) Ministry is dedicated to providing both physical and spiritual support to those in need. Through a network of volunteers and three sub-ministries, we aim to make a lasting impact on the lives of children, foster families, and care workers across the state.

Here’s how the CWB Ministry creates a safety net of care, encouragement, and resources for those involved in the foster system.

 Three Ways We Make a Difference

The CWB Ministry is organized into three sub-ministries, each addressing a specific area of need:

 1. Foster Parent Support

When families or individuals take on their first foster placement, the experience can feel overwhelming. The Foster Parent Support team steps in with practical resources, guidance, and encouragement to help them navigate this critical time. 

Examples of Support:

• Providing essentials like clothes, bedding, diapers, and meal trains.

• Explaining what to expect during the first court hearing.

• Offering advice on building healthy relationships with the child’s biological family.

• Helping foster parents access benefits and navigate the path to reunification or adoption.

2. Family Friend Program

Reuniting families is a beautiful milestone, but it can come with its own set of challenges. The Family Friend Program supports biological families as they navigate reunification or at-home services, helping to prevent reentry into the foster system.

Examples of Support:

• Advocating for children in schools and accessing resources.

• Celebrating family milestones to reinforce progress and unity.

• Offering emotional and spiritual encouragement during tough times.

• Modeling what healthy friendships and community look like.

3. Care

The Care team extends its reach to support both foster care workers and families in need of tangible resources that the system cannot always provide. This team bridges the gap, ensuring families and workers feel valued and supported.

Examples of Support for Workers:

• Appreciation events, team-building activities, and handwritten cards recognizing their hard work.

 Examples of Resources for Families:

• Groceries, furniture, and rent/mortgage assistance.

• Bus passes and activity fees for newly reunified children (e.g., karate, ballet, or sports).

The Team Behind the Mission

Creating meaningful impact requires a strong, organized team. The CWB Ministry operates through a multi-level structure that equips volunteers and fosters growth:

• Child Well-Being Director: Leads the ministry by setting vision, fostering community partnerships, and equipping team members.

• Volunteer Coordinator: Acts as the first point of contact for new volunteers, ensuring a welcoming experience and smooth onboarding process.

• Coaches and Leads: Each sub-ministry (Foster Parent Support, Family Friend Program, and Care) has dedicated coaches and leads who train, disciple, and support volunteers while building relationships with care workers. 

This structure ensures that every level of involvement is supported, from new volunteers to seasoned leaders.

Why This Ministry Matters

Foster care can be an isolating experience for children, parents, and workers. The CWB Ministry provides connection, care, and resources, helping to create stability in uncertain situations. By supporting the physical and spiritual needs of these families, we remind them they are seen, valued, and loved.