DHSS Press Release |
Date: November 17, 2005 DHSS-114-2005 |
| Vincent P. Meconi, Secretary Jay Lynch, Communications Director (302) 255-9037, Pager (302) 247-8523 Email: jay.lynch@state.de.us |
Contact: Heidi Truschel-Light Phone: (302) 744-4907 Pager: (302) 247-1560 |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DISASTER CHILD CARE WORKSHOP HELD DEC. 3
Childcare is even more important for families rebuilding their lives after a disaster. On Saturday, Dec. 3, state and local emergency response organizations will train qualified adults to care for children in emergency shelters. The training will be held at Bethany Church of the Brethren, 133 School Street, Farmington, DE from 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. This program is a collaboration with the Division of Public Health's Office of Child Care Licensing and Emergency Medical Services for Children program, DEMA and the American Red Cross.
Volunteer child care supports parents by giving them freedom to secure necessary assistance, with the assurance that their children are cared for in a safe and secure environment. Professional counselors are also available to inform and educate parents, teachers, community workers and the general public about the effects of disasters on children.
Those interested in becoming a certified disaster child care volunteer should have the following qualifications:
- Care about and enjoy interacting with children
- Be 18 years of age or older (male or female)
- Be in good physical and mental health
- Be a team player
- Work well under stress and adverse conditions
To become certified as a disaster child care worker, participants will need to complete the following:
- Complete an intensive 12-hour training workshop
- Provide at least two approved personal references
- Obtain a clean criminal background check
Caring for children after disasters has been a significant ministry of the Church of the Brethren since 1980. Since then over 2,500 volunteers have cared for more than 74,000 children in response to floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, fires, ice storms, tornadoes, terrorist attacks, and aviation incidents. More than 80 DCC volunteers were deployed to assist in the Hurricane Katrina shelters.
This program is recognized nationally for high standards of child care, readiness and flexibility in response, and the dedication and enthusiasm of its child care volunteers. Anyone interested in participating in this training may register either by calling Family & Workplace Connection at 1-800-660-6602 or on-line at http://www.familyandworkplace.org/ .
Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.
