Safe Families for Children
Eastern Oregon
An Initiative of the Northeast Oregon Compassion Center
We believe in empowering families to overcome crises by offering support when they need it most. Our mission is to create a compassionate community of volunteers who provide temporary homes for children while parents address the challenges they face. Participation is entirely voluntary, with parents maintaining full custody of their children. Safe Families For Children operates beneath the umbrella of the Northeast Oregon Compassion Center and serves families in Baker City, Baker and Union Counties, and across Eastern Oregon.
Our Values
At the core of Safe Families for Children are the following values:
Radical Hospitality
Our circles of support open hearts and homes to children and families in need, extending love and care without hesitation.
Compassion Fueled by Mercy
Our program is built on a foundation of mercy, understanding that everyone deserves support during tough times.
Disruptive Generosity
We challenge the norms by providing generous care and support, driven not by compensation but by a desire to create positive change.
How the Safe Families for Children Process Works
We understand that every family’s journey is different. Whether facing homelessness, hospitalization, or mental health challenges, we’re here to help.
Our Process
- Referral: Whether referred by a friend, family member, or social service provider, parents or guardians can contact us directly by filling out the confidential request form below.
- Temporary Hosting: We match the children with a safe, loving, and certified volunteer Host Home while the parents address their challenges. Host Homes are fully vetted and background-checked.
- Family Support: While the children stay with a Host Home, volunteers work with the parents to help them regain stability and reunite with their children.
- Reunification: Our goal is always to reunite families as quickly as possible in a stronger, healthier home environment.
Guidelines for Safety
- Parents retain full custody of their children and may have them returned at any time.
- Host Homes are thoroughly screened, trained, and background-checked.
- Children typically stay for an average of six weeks, though the length of stay can vary based on the needs of the family.
- Safe Families For Children works closely with referring organizations and volunteers to ensure the safety and well-being of the child.
Common Referral Situations
Safe Families For Children can step in during various life challenges, including but not limited to:
- Hospitalization (e.g., surgery or rehabilitation)
- Facing Homelessness
- Mental Health Concerns (e.g., depression)
- Lack of Social Support during overwhelming circumstances
Unfortunately, we cannot accept referrals in situations involving current abuse, domestic violence, or dangerous behaviors. In such cases, Child Protective Services (CPS) would need to be involved.
Our Intake Process
Parents who participate in Safe Families for Children are required to complete the following forms:
- Assignment of Custodial Power of Attorney
- Authorization for Medical Consent for a Minor Dependent
- Liability Waiver
- Health Privacy Agreement
Your safety and the safety of your children are our top priorities, and we are committed to helping you rebuild in a compassionate and supportive environment.
Get Involved
Safe Families for Children relies on a network of dedicated volunteers and community support. If you are interested in becoming a Host Home or volunteering in other capacities, we would love to hear from you.
Become a Host Home:
Open your home to children in need and provide them with a safe, nurturing environment while their parents work toward stability. Host Homes are screened, trained, and supported throughout the hosting arrangement.
Refer a Child or Family:
If you know of a family or child who would benefit from the Safe Families for Children program, simply contact us by filling out the confidential request form below. For urgent needs, please call us at (503) 906-1027.
Request a Safe Family:
If you’re a parent or guardian experiencing a crisis and need a temporary, safe, and loving home for your child, reach out to us. Our program is here to support you without relinquishing your parental rights.
Become a Donor: Donations to our Help Fund are what allow us to expand our services and areas of support. Administrative costs are covered by grant money, so your donation will go directly to families in need. Donate using the secure form below.
Contact Us:
- Email: easternoregon@safefamilies.net
- Phone: 541-519-6436
- Referral Form: Referral Form
National Website: https://baker-county.safe-families.org/