Mission Moment The Gift of Belonging
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Sophie, age five, and her eight-year-old brother Mason have been receiving respite care with one of our licensed foster families for some time now. What was meant to be a temporary arrangement has become a meaningful part of their lives. According to their respite provider, Amy, the siblings have woven themselves right into the fabric of her large, busy household. They dive headfirst into family activities, share plenty of laughter with the other kids, and are welcomed as though they've always been there.
Perhaps the most touching part of their story unfolds between visits. Amy shared that her own children ask almost daily when Sophie and Mason will be back. That eagerness says it all — it's proof of the real bonds that have formed and the genuine love these two siblings have found. For Sophie and Mason, respite isn't just a place to stay anymore — it's become another family, one where they feel accepted, valued, and cared for.
Stories like this are a powerful reminder that respite care does far more than give foster parents a breather. It strengthens placements, builds lasting connections, and surrounds children with additional safe, nurturing relationships that help them truly thrive. Sometimes, the greatest gift respite offers is something every child deserves — the simple reassurance of a place where they're eagerly awaited, warmly welcomed, and deeply loved.
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Respite care is often thought of as simply giving foster parents a much-needed break, but it's so much more. It opens the door for children to build trusting relationships, feel a true sense of belonging, and become part of a supportive community.
During periods of respite, children maintain their daily routines and familiar activities in a safe, structured environment, reducing stress and uncertainty while their caregiver is away.
By supporting foster parents when they need it most, respite services strengthen families, prevent placement disruptions, and ensure children continue receiving the consistent care they deserve.
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37th Annual Brown Bag Campaign
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Development Director Emma Gomez shares how the Brown Bag Campaign helps ensure that the children we serve have the same opportunities as their peers.
3 easy ways to help:
- Fill a bag — Pick up a little brown bag at your local Oleson's or Oryana, fill it, and drop it back off.
- Mail a check — Child & Family Services, 3785 Veterans Dr., Traverse City, MI 49684 (Memo: Brown Bag Campaign)
- Give online — Click the donate button below.
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Show your CFS Pride!
New CFS gear is here, and we'd love for you to grab a piece to show your support for kids and families across northern Michigan. From cozy sweatshirts to everyday essentials, there's something for everyone.
Shop the full lineup: threadscustomgear.com
Order by Thursday, July 23rd at midnight
Prefer to skip shipping? Choose the pick-up option at checkout — CFS will pick up all pick-up orders from Threads Custom, and they'll be available for you at our office.
Every purchase helps spread the word about our mission — thank you for wearing your support!
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Join Us for a Night of Live Music!
Come support CFS at a fundraiser hosted by the Manistee Elks Lodge. Enjoy live music by the Downtowners, a 50/50 raffle, and food & drinks available for purchase. No entry fee — donations are always appreciated.
See you there!
Saturday, July 25th
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Elks Lodge Manistee
432 River St, Manistee, MI 49660
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Intro to Foster Care
Child & Family Services invites you to an Intro to Foster Care licensing session designed for those interested in becoming foster parents. Learn about the licensing process, the need for foster homes in our community, and how you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of local children and families. Join us on August 19th at 5:45 PM to take the first step toward opening your home and heart.
Register Here
Learn More
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Volunteer Opportunity
We're looking for a volunteer with hedge clippers (and a knack for trimming!) to help tidy up the bushes around our Veterans Drive property.
Does this sound like you? Send us an email at cfs@cfs3L.org or give us a call at 231-946-8975.
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2025 Annual Report
We are excited to share our newest Annual Report!
Our FY25 Annual Report features a story from each of our departments, giving you a personal connection to the work we do and the people we (and you!) support with caring and compassionate services.
Read our Annual Report here.
Let us know what you think!
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Help Us Stay Steady Through Uncertain Times
For $10 a month, you can give a child in foster care something to hold onto when the world feels scary. Become a monthly donor.
Recent funding cuts have deeply impacted many of our vital programs. By becoming a monthly sustaining donor, you help ensure we can keep showing up for vulnerable youth—month after month, no matter what. Your ongoing support makes long-term impact possible.
| | CFS Foster Care, Licensing, Adoption, Respite and Behavioral Health programs are accredited by CARF International, a rigorous, voluntary peer review which holds us to the highest standards of programing and governance. | | CFS has earned a four-star rating from Charity Navigator, the highest honor for financial health and transparency. | | Candid has awarded CFS its highest honor for organizational transparency, reflecting our commitment to integrity and accountability. | | |
Connect With Us
Child & Family Services of Northwestern Michigan
3785 Veterans Drive, Traverse City | (231) 946-8975
3434 M-119, Ste F, Harbor Springs | (231) 347-4463
cfs@cfs3L.org | www.cfsnwmi.org
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