About us

Mission statement

Nurturing children

Since 1980 Children’s Disaster Services (CDS), a program of Brethren Disaster Ministries, 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, and any natural or human-caused disaster.

What we do

Volunteers from across the country:

  • Participate in specialized experiential training undergo a rigorous screening process.
  • Learn to work with children after a disaster.
  • Can mobilize rapidly and responding both locally and nationally.
  • Arrive to a disaster location with a “Kit of Comfort” containing carefully selected toys that promote imaginative play.
  • Give children individualized attention and encourage them to express themselves, thereby starting the healing process.
  • Although many are motivated by faith, CDS’ training is open to anyone over 18 years old.

Trainings

April 12-13, 2024
Ankeny Christian Church
2506 SW 3rd Street
Ankeny, IA  50023

April 13-14, 2024
La Verne Church of the Brethren
2425 E Street
La Verne, CA 91750

May 3-4, 2024
Freeport Church of the Brethren
777 W Pleasant Street
Freeport, IL 61023

Sign up here

Our Partners

American Red Cross
FEMA logo
Child Life Disaster Relief
National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster