Community-Based Respite Care
Webster's dictionary defines "respite" as "an interval of rest or relief."
When we talk about disability-related issues, one of the topics that surfaces
is the issue of respite care. Respite is important to everybody. This
concept is so fundamental that God built the principle into the order of
Creation itself - "and on the seventh day He rested from all His work" (Genesis 2:2).
If respite is necessary for all of us, then why the emphasis on this for families
affected by disability? The answer, as with many related questions, is "a
difference of degree" (from Featherstone). Actually, this makes it easier
for us to identify with the problem at hand. If we can recognize our own need
to disengage from our daily responsibilities, then how much more does a family
that has constant caregiving duties need the same thing? 
That's why RPC is part of a community partnership
to offer respite care to Ephrata-area families affected
by disability. Working with Aaron's Acres as the
lead agency, we offer our facilities for the program,
round up volunteers from Ephrata churches and the
Ephrata High School National Honor Society, and
contact local businesses to provide discount coupons
to participating families. Community-Based Respite
Care (CBRC) is a connectional mercy ministry for
RPC. While we work with outside agencies to provide
the program, the participation of RPC members is
done in the name of Jesus. CBRC is held one Sunday
afternoon per month throughout the school year from
1 o'clock to 4 o'clock. Training is provided for
all volunteers and supervision is provided by licensed
social workers and special education professionals.
A nurse is on-site as well. The activities at respite
care are fun and developmentally appropriate for
children with special needs. A parallel set-up for
siblings
is included as part of the complete respite care
program. All services are offered free of charge,
with the exception of a one-time $25 registration
fee.
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