Catholic Charities’ Family Preservation programs help strengthen families and build parenting skills to create a safe environment for children. The Department of Child Safety (DCS) refers parents to our Family Connections, Nurturing Parenting, Arizona Families F.I.R.S.T (Families in Recovery Succeeding Together) and SENSE (Substance Exposed Newborn Safe Environment) programs.
Partnerships Increase Access to Services and Resources
Parents in our programs have not had the support they needed in the past and may struggle with issues like addiction to substances. With so much on their plate already, it can be difficult to afford things like household items and clothing.
That’s why Deseret Industries has stepped up and provided a grant to our Family Preservation programs. Deseret Industries is a nonprofit thrift store and donation center owned and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Its mission is to better the community through job training and education, provide low-cost goods, and reduce waste.
With this grant, Catholic Charities staff can fill out a voucher that provides funds for families to go shopping for items like beds, lamps, electronics, clothing, shoes, and accessories. This ongoing partnership has helped individuals and families in many Catholic Charities programs over the years.
“The work that is done cannot be done alone. The partnerships we have with Deseret Industries open the door for more families to be served,” said Sabrina Walton, Program Manager, NPP and FC.
Families Express Their Gratitude
In May 2024, Sabrina was able to assist a family in purchasing summer clothing for their 13-year-old. The household includes grandparents who have been caring for their grandson, who was born with fetal alcohol syndrome, since birth.
Because the family is retired, they work with a limited income to provide for their child’s needs. Assistance from organizations such as Deseret Industries is what has gotten them through hard times.
With the help of the vouchers, another client was able to get new clothes for the first time in over three years. “To others, these might not be new. But to me, these are new clothes, and I was happy to get new outfits for the summer,” the client shared.
Deseret Industries’ generosity even helped a single mother make Christmas special for her family. She was able to buy gifts and clothing for her children. The joy and excitement on their faces were priceless.
Your Support Helps Build Strong and Healthy Families
When it comes to creating a positive family environment, the little things matter. Having nice furniture to make a home comfortable and new clothing that brings confidence can help a family feel prepared to face other challenges in their lives. If you’d like to show your support for families in our programs, consider donating online or through our Amazon Charity Lists.
