Supported parents help children thrive. Caring for children starts with caring for parents.

Will you connect with ONE isolated family in NYC?

Our volunteers partner with families by providing friendship and support to isolated parents and their children. Connections can be virtual or in-person, based on the volunteer and family comfort level.  We have a team approach to volunteering so that no one feels alone or overwhelmed. Teams provide a “Circle of Support” for families.

Want to learn more? Request a link to our 15 minute pre-recorded info session.

Here are the steps to become a Family Friend. We rigorously screen potential volunteers to ensure the safety of parents and children, but don’t worry, we will walk you through the process!

Step 1: Fill out an online application and provide 3 references: https://sfcms.net/apply/. Select “New York City, NY” as the region in the drop down menu.

Step 2: Complete background screenings: Statewide Central Registry for Child Abuse and Neglect and GoPass Fingerprinting.

Step 3: Watch the online volunteer training (2 1⁄2 hours and can be viewed in short segments).

Step 4: Schedule a brief 45 minute video interview with our Family Support Coordinator.

Once approved, our staff will connect you with a list of waiting families.

For any questions on the approval process, please contact Olivia Voegtle at nyc@safefamilies.net​ or 646-907-3039

Other roles:

Resource Friend Application- donate and deliver items or services that families need.

Family Coach- help parents set goals, find resources, and provide support to the team of volunteers. Experienced Family Friends are invited to apply for the Family Coach role.

Ministry Lead- liaison between a church partner and our staff. Ministry Leads recruit and support volunteers from their church or community.

Host Family- temporarily care for a child in their home at a parent’s request. We are in process of applying to be a Helping Hands NY Agency so that we can host. Stay tuned!