Helping Wright County families in times of need

In times of difficulty, families often face overwhelming challenges, and the need for immediate assistance can arise unexpectedly. The Wright County Crisis Nursery is a trusted community resource offering support and safety during adverse times. Serving the Wright County area, this organization plays a crucial role in providing short-term care for children and resources for parents in need. 

Operating under the umbrella of Lutheran Social Services, the Wright County Crisis Nursery is a free, confidential, and voluntary service that provides temporary childcare for families experiencing significant stressors, including health issues, housing instability, and financial hardship. The nursery’s primary goal is to ensure the well-being and safety of children while supporting parents in navigating their challenges.

Nursery Facilitator, Alexis Rian, emphasized the importance of reaching out before a situation escalates and becomes unmanageable. “We’re trying to move away from the word crisis. We would like families to call us before they get to that point. We don’t like to be the end of the road. We would like to be able to say ‘yes’ in whatever capacity is needed.” Families do not need a referral to access services, a phone call is all that is required.

Services are available to families with children ranging from birth to twelve years old. The nursery collaborates with local childcare and licensed foster care providers to create a safe and nurturing environment for children. Care is provided on a 24-hour basis and also covers weekend needs. Rian stated, “All providers are licensed through the county or state, and the nursery also partners with foster care agencies.” 

A 24-hour phone line is staffed by trained volunteers including teachers and medical personnel and currently has seven members with a hope of adding a few more, as overnight and weekend hours are needed. Volunteers don’t have to remain awake during the overnight shift but need to be available if someone calls. “Just have your phone nearby. If you miss a call, it’s ok,” stated Rian. “We are always looking for additional providers and volunteers.”

Nursery services allow parents or guardians the time and space to address specific needs without worrying about their children’s safety. Beyond childcare, services also provide emotional support and guidance to parents, helping them develop strategies to overcome their current challenges. The nursery serves as a bridge to other local organizations, ensuring families have access to a network of assistance tailored to their various needs.

By offering a safe space for children and connecting parents with essential resources, the nursery strengthens families by empowering parents to focus on problem solving while knowing their children are cared for in a compassionate environment. By alleviating immediate stress, families can regain stability and move forward with hope and confidence.

The Wright County Crisis Nursery relies on the generosity of the community to sustain its operations. The agency receives no state or federal dollars. Funding for the nursery is done through grants, including the Wright County United Way. Donations such as diapers, wipes, formula, clothing, or toys are always appreciated, along with monetary contributions. Sharing information about the nursery with friends, family, and social networks ensures that more families know about this vital resource.

In moments of hardship, having a support system can make all the difference. The Wright County Crisis Nursery exemplifies the power of community care, stepping in to support families during their most vulnerable times. Through its dedicated services and compassionate approach, the nursery continues to be a beacon of hope for Wright County families.

If you would like to donate, volunteer, or utilize the Wright County Crisis Nursery services, please call 320-406-8606. Additional information can be found at: www.lssmn.org/services/fami lies/crisis-nurseries.