Purpose
To bring nearly 400 children together with families and caregivers in a stable, nurturing environment.
Description
Children from abusive or neglectful homes, as well as children from loving families who may experience a troubled period, often lack the fundamental skills to succeed in school, their communities and life. They need a safe place to live, a nurturing environment in which to grow and the emotional and physical support that only comes from making the right Connections. This group of Porter-Leath programs is operated by clinical staff 24-hours a day, and focuses on providing residential, foster care, adoption, runaway and homeless services for children from birth to age 18 in a supportive and therapeutic environment.
Services Provided - Individual therapy and specialized treatment
- Group and recreational therapy
- Life skills training
- Community referral and follow up
- Family counseling
- Meals and shelter
Benefits - Children receive the physical, emotional and educational support they so desperately need
- Stronger communities through healthier, young adults
- Safe, therapeutic environment
History
Since its inception in 1850, Porter-Leath has cared for children without viable or stable families while continually broadening its scope to fill the community’s need. Porter-Leath opened its foster care and adoption program in 1986 to place children from abusive environments with parents willing to care for them in a home setting. In 1993, the doors to Sarah’s Place were opened to serve as a structured therapeutic shelter to meet the emergency needs of children.
Other Facts - Clients qualify for services when they have been removed from their home due to child abuse or neglect, or are homeless.
- Clients are referred through the TN Department of Children Services, community service providers, the school system and self-referrals.
- Funding is provided by the TN Department of Children Services, the US Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families through a Runaway Homeless Youth grant and private donations.
Runaway/Homeless Shelter
Porter-Leath’s Runaway/Homeless Youth Program provides 24-hour support to runaway/homeless youth ages 13 to 17. Clients are assessed and cared for in a nurturing, structured and treatment-centered environment. Children not fitting admission criteria will be referred to other community agencies. For more information, please contact Marcus Stansberry, residential manager, at:
For Runaway/Homeless Youth outside of Shelby County, please visit http://www.1800runaway.org/ for contact information.
|
