The real winner: the family | CarePortal

One agency’s first CarePortal request had two churches clamoring for the opportunity to respond. CarePortal in Montgomery County, Ohio recently started enrolling additional requesting agencies outside of Children Services to be able to provide a wider net of care for their whole community. The very first of these requests came from Brigid’s Path and left the community eager to serve.

Brigid’s Path was founded in 2014 to care for babies and mothers in crisis with grace, love and hope. Their primary work is to care for infants born exposed to an addictive substance like prescription medication, opioids or other drugs. Their team heard Janelle Shelton, CarePortal’s State Director, speak on a call for nonprofits across the state of Ohio, and were so excited they enrolled in CarePortal the same day.

Requests don’t come in very often from this area, so local churches jumped on the chance to meet it. Two churches even had a friendly feud (technically, a conversation). Lifepointe Church recently enrolled and insisted they meet the need, although Fairhaven Church responded first. Ultimately, Fairhaven surrendered and Lifepointe met the need. The real winner is the family they served!

“It’s important for communities to see churches working together. We’re all here for the same common purpose: to help the child in need,” said Jane Piatt, Dayton Regional Manager.

The request was for food, diapers, wipes, household cleaning supplies and age appropriate toys for their one-year-old daughter’s first birthday. Dad was sick in the hospital for two months and is now recovering in a nursing facility, but it is unknown when he will be able to return to work. Mom took on all financial responsibilities and lost her job due to COVID-19. She was struggling to make ends meet on unemployment and needed some assistance after a costly, unexpected car repair.

Brigid’s Path couldn’t believe how fast the responses came pouring in and how quickly the need was met.

“The family that is being assisted is so grateful for the help. It is relieving a lot of stress off the mom that is currently dealing with a difficult time. Thank you so much,” said Shelby Borchers, Family Advocacy Supervisor, at Brigid’s Path.

We are excited to see how the partnership with Brigid’s Path and additional requesting agencies continues to grow and serve more families in the Montgomery County community!

Share CarePortal with your church to get the enrollment process started and start serving those affected by COVID-19. With your support, we can mitigate food, home essentials and housing insecurities for the most vulnerable children and families.