November 30, 2020

As we head into 2021, many in our community are choosing optimism over fear. This year, we have been truly inspired at Relief Nursery by the selfless generosity and support of programs that have literally been a lifeline to families hit hard by the COVID health and economic crisis. And so, at Relief Nursery, we have good reason to remain optimistic and hopeful.

We’ve seen how your kindness helps parents draw on their resilience, and build on the power that springs from the love for their children. It is true that unknown strength can be found in the face of adversity.

Still, the ever-changing landscape of this past year has made serving Relief Nursery families a challenge – at the very time they need us most.

We have witnessed the disproportionate impact of this crisis on our already vulnerable families. We’ve seen an increase in substance abuse, domestic violence and punitive parenting practices.

As is so often the case, it is the children who bear the brunt of stress and adversity. This is why it is urgent that we do everything we can to support these families.

Just last month, the Relief Nursery team made 864 calls to parents. Over the course of six weeks, we provided 91 respite child care sessions at just one site. These efforts are rewarded every day by the children and families we serve – by the strides they make and the hardships they overcome.

We want to share with you inspiring messages from families that illustrate the importance and significance of your gifts to Relief Nursery.

• “I will say it very simply . . . Miss Paula and the Relief Nursery have saved our lives. My children are only four years old. They have seen far more than they should have. My kids and I have been homeless, hungry and often times full of fear. Thanks to the support of the Relief Nursery, we have a home and some form of stability. It is difficult to explain. The services and support that the Relief Nursery provides goes one step further than any other form of helping in that they know us and they understand our needs. They know my children. Miss Paula has gone above and beyond for these kids to ensure they are safe and nurtured. She supports me and guides me well. The entire staff at Relief Nursery has placed gentle hands around our lives to help us bridge between turmoil and safety.”     

• “Thank you Barbara for the support given to my kids, they adore you. I attended Parenting Classes and I feel they helped me grow as a mother. Thank you Relief Nursery, I connected with other parents and my kids made friendships that are strong till this day. I have no words to express how thankful I am, for allowing me to belong to the extended Relief Nursery family.”

• “ This year has been difficult with a lot of changes. So grateful Relief Nursery continues to support me through COVID and be a consistent resource for me and my son. Other resources in the area have closed their doors. Relief Nursery has given us consistent stable services during unstable times. Thank you for giving us HOPE and CARING about us!”

As you can imagine the impact of serving these children and families is profound for Relief Nursery staff. We’ve been providing fresh food boxes and pantry staples along with basic needs such as diapers, feminine hygiene products and laundry soap. We’ve assisted with rent and utility support so our families can stay in their homes. We’ve found new ways to connect and provide recovery and mental health support for the children and families. In doing all this, we are building trusting relationships and supporting families to resiliency – from the small steps to the big victories and changes that lead to stability. This is what drives our staff.

No one knows how COVID and other challenges will continue to impact our families over time.

The outlook for Relief Nursery children and families remains uncertain.

What is certain, however, is that Relief Nursery will be here to support these children and families in any way we can. We can’t solve every problem but we are trying every day. Your support makes this possible. By working together, we are making a difference.

And so, this is a time of great need and gratitude. Great need as the safety of children is our most pressing concern. And gratitude for the hopes and dreams and the chance that Relief Nursery children have to fulfill their potential. As you consider your year-end giving, please know that Relief Nursery needs your support. Your gifts are deeply appreciated and carefully stewarded.

Gratefully,

Rory Robison                                                                          Ralph Parshall
President                                                                                 President Elect
Relief Nursery Board of Directors                                      Relief Nursery Board of Directors

PS: Fully a third of our revenue is from individuals like you. Thank you for investing in Relief Nursery children and families at a time in their lives when your support will make the greatest impact.