Stephanie was referred to us by Samaritas after she learned that her husband’s past criminal conduct prevented him from being with her four children, three boys from her first marriage (Chance, Aiden, and Dominic) and her newborn daughter, Aurora, without supervision. The news left Stephanie feeling isolated and overwhelmed as she tried to navigate an already challenging season of life.
Aurora, born in 2024 with Down Syndrome, required frequent medical appointments. Chance, her middle son, has Autism and participates in multiple therapies and support programs. At the same time, Stephanie unexpectedly became responsible for caring for her father. Stephanie suddenly found herself having to manage housing changes, transportation, school schedules, therapy sessions, and medical care all on her own.
During this crisis, Stephanie was connected to Samaritas, who helped her establish boundaries with her husband and guided her through the CPS process. When the 90‑day Samaritas case had to be closed, Laura Warren, a Family Preservation Worker at Samaritas (who is now on our team as our very own Volunteer Coordinator!), referred Stephanie to Safe Families so that she could receive ongoing relational and practical support.
Safe Families matched Stephanie with her first Family Friend, Nathalia Wiemers from North Pines Church. Nathalia provided baby items, toys, Thanksgiving dinner, and, just as importantly, friendship. When Nathalia had to step back from volunteering, we connected Stephanie with another Family Friend, Karen Farthing from New Life Church. Karen checks in weekly, always asks about ongoing needs, and recently coordinated with her church to replace the brakes on Stephanie’s car. New Life Church’s generosity ensured Stephanie could safely transport her children and keep up with Aurora’s many appointments.
When asked how Safe Families has impacted her life, Stephanie shared:“Safe Families has been there when I needed extra help to get my family through some tough times. I would recommend them to anyone who needs a lending hand, even if it’s just someone to listen.”
We’re grateful God brought Stephanie to us and for the beautiful ways the family of God is continuing to surround her during this challenging season.
