For families of children with special needs daily living demands
constant planning, juggling of activities and working to keep a routine
in the child’s life. The result is many parents get little alone time
– for themselves or as a couple. Parents, who know their child’s
challenges so intimately, struggle with the idea of leaving them with
strangers. This was the case for Laura Krupa of Franklin Township. Ms.
Krupa’s daughter Kelly is 13 and has developmental delays and special
needs.
When Laura’s friends planned a girl’s trip to the Caribbean in the
fall she wanted to go, but needed to find someone she trusted to care
for Kelly for a few hours when she gets off the school bus and until her
husband comes home. Ms. Krupa explained, “I have always depended on
my sons or a neighbor to help get Kelly settled after school if I cannot
be there. Now they are all grown and are either at college or work. My
husband and I are very particular in who we trust to watch our daughter
because she has little awareness of danger or could potentially walk off
our property without proper supervision.”
Ms. Krupa called Visiting Health and Supportive Services Neighbor Care
Program for assistance. The Neighbor Care Program can place
specially-trained companions in the home to provide supervision, company
and help prepare light meals. The program is able to provide care for
children with special needs, older adults and even new parents who need
an extra hand. Companions help clients take part in a variety of
activities, including: taking a walk, monitoring medication usage,
reading aloud, creating crafts, playing games, doing laundry, helping
with meal planning and preparation, sharing reminiscences as well as
conversation and basic grooming.
“Kelly is use to a regular routine and it is hard for her if it is
broken. She comes home from school and has a snack, likes to draw,
plays games and enjoys feeding our sheep. I feel secure having a
Companion come in because I know it is a service I can rely on and she
will be in good hands,” stated Ms. Krupa.
For more information on the Neighbor Care program call Cheryl Tigar at
908-788-2568.
