RESPITE is a monthly four-hour relaxation break for the caregivers to special needs children ages newborn through 12.  Ponder UMC takes responsibility for the children on the 3rd Saturday of each month from 1-5 PM.  This offers the caregivers the opportunity to focus their attention exclusively on themselves once a month.  At the same time they can be assured their children are in a safe, encouraging, Christian environment. 

While the caregivers are away the children will play games, learn about Jesus, and share snacks.  In the future the children may be able to receive physical therapy.  While our time and attention is given to the special needs children, the focus of the program is actually on the caregivers.  Our goal is to provide an afternoon when the caregivers can step outside of their daily routine for some well deserved rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation.