Host Family Requirements and
Process
At Safe Families of Southwest Michigan, we are a volunteer movement centered in local churches. We are engaged in God’s mission to serve and support these vulnerable families during their times of need. Our core mission is to keep children safe and families together. But, our success relies on the efforts of volunteers, host families, and benefactors. We truly believe that everyone can contribute to making our community happier, healthier, and safer for children. So, are you ready to help?
How to Get Started
- Submit your application
- Complete a background check
- In-person interview
- Complete initial training online
- Get ready to volunteer!
Submit an Application Today
We’re so honored that you’ve chosen to give your time to Safe Families of Southwest Michigan. Thousands of families in our local community need your help. Whether they’re experiencing a medical emergency, financial issues, or homelessness, what they need is stability. Your involvement ensures they have a dependable hand to help them stay safe, whole, and united.
Volunteer Vetting Process
- ICHAT
- Central Registry
- Public Sex Offender Registry
- Fingerprinting
- Full Home Safety Assessment (Host Families only)
Kari & Jon's
Story
Jon and I have been involved with Safe Families since 2017. I remember when the coordinator came to our home for our initial meeting. She opened our conversation with prayer and I immediately realized this was different. We’d found a ministry, not an agency.
The onboarding process was similar to what we had for our foster license, only not as intense. We still had all the background checks, but there weren’t as many forms and financial requirements. Our coordinator asked about our faith and church life.
Our first hosting was a sibling group of three girls, ages 11, 8, and 5. The plan was for a two week stay, and it ended up being just short of six weeks. After a four-month break, we agreed to care for a seven month old for six weeks. As we talked more with the mom and learned her needs, we extended the hosting to five months. Since then, we’ve had placements varying in length from two days to three weeks. Each situation is different, but all are in crisis, and the kids are the hardest hit, so we try to love on them as much as possible.
Having a network of volunteers to talk to and help during a hosting is huge. They surround us, the kids, and their parents with support, which makes a big difference. When you commit to volunteer, no matter what role you play, you’re not alone.
Our hearts have been opened to true Biblical hospitality and we have been changed. God has introduced strangers into our lives and our home in their time of need, and yet we’re the ones who end up feeling blessed! But that’s how God works: it just starts with that first step in faith. Even if our strength fails, His never does.
