St. Mary’s Family Respite Center

3115 Spring Garden St.
 Philadelphia, PA  19104

215.387.7730 

http://www.stmarysrespite.org

St. Mary’s Family Respite Center maintains the mission, “to provide relief to HIV-affected families with children through high-quality, developmentally appropriate childcare to infants, toddlers and pre-schoolers”. Services are provided free of charge. Initially organized in 1992, the Center served families in West Philadelphia. Today, families throughout Philadelphia County take advantage of the Center’s services. The children involved in the Center’s programs include children infected by HIV, or children whose home is affected by HIV or AIDS through an HIV infected person or someone living with AIDS. Up to twelve children per day come to the program. 

Opportunities available through St. Mary’s Family Respite Center may be of particular interest to Education majors with a focus in Early Education, Human Services majors, Nursing students, and anyone interested in working with young children or a population affected by HIV/AIDS. 

Contact: Beth Medoway, Operation Manager;
Monday – Friday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.  beth@stmarysrespite.org

Volunteer Opportunities: 

Child Care Assistant

Up to four volunteers can assist with the daily activities of the children at the Center. Volunteers have direct contact and much interaction with the children, assisting with snacks, crafts, reading, play, and more.

When: Volunteer’s shifts can occur Tuesday through Friday 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or 2 to 3 p.m.

IMPORTANT

Volunteers must have child abuse and criminal record check clearance. While papers are processing volunteers can still assist, but only on a limited basis (no taking children to the bathroom, etc.) 

 Group Volunteering

Groups of up to ten volunteers are welcome to come and do intensive cleaning of the Center. This includes bleaching mats, toys, the kitchen, etc.

 

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