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