A BRIDGE OF SUPPORT

Care can change the story.

SAFE connects people with practical ways to support foster children and foster families in New Haven County.

Find my next step Learn about SAFE

Sharing Adoption + Foster Experiences
Rally · Resources · Respite

Illustrative scene of adults and a family gathered in conversation

01 / THE HEART OF SAFEStronger families. Supported children.
Connected community.

ONE MISSION

Three ways to help.Rally · Resources · RespiteOne next step.

ABOUT SAFE

2030 GOALMore prepared and well-supported foster families than children waiting for foster homes.

MORE THAN ENOUGH BY 2030

More supported families for every child who needs one.

SAFE aims to be the bridge that ensures more than enough well-supported foster families for every child in foster care in New Haven County by 2030. As part of Vertical Church’s Outreach Ministry, we invite the church and community to help families thrive.

HISTORICAL SNAPSHOT · 2020 DATA

The need is real.

These historical figures were included in SAFE’s January 2021 proposal and reflect Connecticut Department of Children and Families data valid through August 10, 2020.

1,288children in foster care in New Haven County

217children placed outside New Haven County

2030SAFE’s goal for more than enough supported families

THERE IS MORE THAN ONE WAY TO HELP

There’s more than one way to make a difference. Find the way that feels like you.

Rally, Resources, and Respite are SAFE’s three paths for getting involved. Find the path that matches your time, skills, and capacity.

Rally

Gather people around the need.

Help start conversations, create awareness, and bring the community together.

Resources

Offer what you have.

Share practical help, useful skills, and resources that can make a difference.

EXPLORE RESOURCES

Respite

Stand beside families.

Explore ways to encourage and support caregivers through the journey.

EXPLORE RESPITE

YOUR NEXT STEP

Start where you are. We’ll find the fit together.

Tell SAFE how to reach you and choose the areas you’re interested in. Your answers help us connect you with the right next step in the ministry.

Find my next step

01Learn about SAFE

See how Rally, Resources, and Respite work.

02Choose what interests you

Select the ways you may want to participate.

03Tell us how to reach you

SAFE will follow up and help you identify your next step.

UPCOMING AT SAFE

NOVEMBER 8, 2026

Pure Religion Sunday

A November observance focused on responding to the needs of vulnerable children and families. SAFE’s local event details are still to come.

RESOURCES

Resources for families and supporters

Learn about the local need and return for approved resource listings, archived Heart Gallery material, and event handouts as they become available.

Explore resources

THE BRIDGE BEGINS WITH US

There’s a place for you in this work.

Find my next step