God has given local churches a unique opportunity to demonstrate tender compassion and mercy to those who are in desperate need. New York state has signed a contract with CarePortal and Onondaga County caseworkers are currently being trained and mandated to use this technology. 

CarePortal is an online database that starts with caseworkers identifying a need of a local child or family, like a bed/crib, furniture, cleaning supplies, groceries, etc. That caseworker then submits a vetted request into CarePortal’s platform which automatically alerts local, participating churches. The church can then respond directly to the caseworker, fulfill the need, and deliver it in person. Fulfilling these needs can directly impact whether a child enters foster care but it also gives the church the opportunity to enter into the lives of people to extend mercy, to share the hope of Christ, and to build a relationship with them without that person having to come or go anywhere. 

This is another way that we can participate in the Every Child Initiative and care for vulnerable children. In order to participate, you must attend one of the trainings. If this date doesn’t work, be on the lookout for future trainings.