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Brethren Disaster Ministries - 2012 HURRICANE SANDY
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About this facility
- Mission
-
Children's Disaster Services Nurturing children
Since 1980 Children’s Disaster Services (CDS) has been meeting
the needs of children by setting up child care centers in shelters
and disaster assistance centers across the nation. Specially
trained to respond to traumatized children, volunteers provide
a calm, safe and reassuring presence in the midst of the chaos
created by tornadoes, floods, hurricanes, wildfires any natural
or human caused disaster. Volunteers from across the country participate in specialized
experiential training undergo a rigorous screening process
learn to work with children after a disaster are capable of
mobilizing rapidly and responding both locally and nationally. Volunteers arrive to a disaster location with a “Kit of Comfort”
containing carefully selected toys that promote imaginative play.
Volunteers give children individualized attention and encourage
them to express themselves, thereby starting the healing process.
Although many volunteers are motivated by faith, CDS’ training is
open to anyone over 18 years old. CDS provides respite, education and individualized consultation
for parents about their child’s unique emotional needs after a
disaster. Through consultation or workshops specifically
tailored to each situation, CDS also works with parents,
community agencies, schools or others to help them understand
and meet the special needs of children during or after a
disaster.
- Areas served
- Long Island, New York & New Jersey
- Eligibility
- Impacted by Hurricane Sandy
- Service
- Temporary
Notes
Children’s Disaster Services deploys volunteers
Judy Bezon, associate director of Children’s Disaster Services (CDS),
traveled to New York on Tues., Oct. 30 to coordinate the CDS response
with the Red Cross and assess where CDS volunteers are most needed in
the heavily impacted areas. As of Nov. 2, nineteen CDS volunteers
are serving in shelters on Long Island and in New Jersey.
CDS’ trained and certified volunteers set up childcare facilities
in shelters and other sites in cooperation with the Red Cross and
FEMA, providing care for children and families affected by disasters.