By Becky Heard and Heather Jeppeson

When folks think about families served by the Yolo Crisis Nursery, it’s easy to imagine dual parents and single mothers. We rarely envision single fathers in need of support. Yet it’s not uncommon for men to need assistance.

Paul, the father of 4-year-old Jonathan and 2-year-old Jada, is one such man.

This fall, Paul watched his wife’s periodic depression worsen as she succumbed to substance abuse. They had just moved to Davis where Paul’s job had been relocated, which made finding help more challenging. Even so, he did everything a loving partner could to steer their sinking ship another direction. Sadly, in the end, the mother of two became violent toward her husband and their children. Paul had to get out. Fast.

Temporarily homeless and lacking trusted, close relationships in his new community, Paul was at a loss as to how he would cope with so many urgent needs and maintain employment at the same time. But, as often happens in Davis, our community came through.

A new friend at work noticed Paul’s changed demeanor and decided to reach out. It didn’t take long for Paul to admit his struggles, and when he did, the friend, a longtime Davis resident, knew exactly how to help.

Paul was referred to the Yolo Crisis Nursery, which provides emergency respite care for children up to age 5 when their families are facing crisis or hardship, providing a safe environment and supervision during the day or night. Staff members also address the situations that bring families there in the first place. In this way, the nursery isn’t a holding pattern; it’s a stabilizing force that enables families to get back on their feet.

In Paul’s case, the nursery worked with him to secure permanent housing, legal assistance, parenting classes and counseling, all while caring for Jonathan and Jada in a loving, home-like atmosphere. Despite the loss of their wife and mother, the family remains intact and is thriving, once again.

As we celebrate the holidays, our families will be central. These relationships can be challenging for all, especially with the added financial and scheduling demands of the season. But for Paul, Jonathan and Jada, they are simply happy to have survived what was unthinkable just months ago.

The time may come when, like Paul’s friend, you, too, will be in the position of giving the gift of healing for others … the blessings of peace and love, made possible by the Yolo Crisis Nursery. And if you do, we urge you to offer this number: (530) 758-6680.

Happy holidays to you and yours!

— Becky Heard and Heather Jeppeson are co-presidents of Friends of the Yolo Crisis Nursery. They can be reached at (530) 386-2647 or [email protected]

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