Them Before Us Podcast – Episode #070: Answering the Call – How the Church Can Support Families in Crisis

Release Date: February 14, 2025

In Episode #070 of the Them Before Us Podcast, hosts Jen and Katy engage in a heartfelt and informative conversation with Christine Denova, Executive Director of the Idaho Families Organization in Northern Idaho. This episode delves into the pivotal role churches and communities play in supporting families during times of crisis, emphasizing a holistic, children’s rights-centric approach.

1. Introduction to Idaho Families Organization and Christine’s Background

The episode begins with Jen introducing Christine Denova and highlighting the mission of Idaho Families Organization. Christine shares her inspiring journey of transitioning from the corporate world to dedicating her life to family and community support.

Christine Denova [01:16]: "I was called by God... I left my corporate job and just was praying, 'Lord, know I say yes to you wherever you want me...’"

Her faith-driven decision led her to roles within her church and a local pregnancy center, ultimately recognizing the need for comprehensive support for families choosing to keep their babies. This realization spurred the launch of Idaho Families, aiming to provide long-term assistance to ensure family stability.

2. Clarifying Misconceptions About Pro-Life Movements

Jen addresses common stereotypes about pro-life activists, emphasizing that Idaho Families goes beyond traditional pro-life activities.

Jen [02:35]: "Pro lifers get this reputation... but Idaho is an organization that's helping more on the side of continuing the pregnancy and after the baby is born."

Christine confirms this approach, explaining that while Crisis Pregnancy Centers provide immediate resources, Idaho Families extends support to help parents navigate long-term challenges.

Christine [03:45]: "We recognize the need and began to investigate and launched Idaho Families to bring wraparound support to these families so that they can parent well and their families can thrive."

3. Comprehensive Services: Mentors, Host Homes, and Support Partners

Christine outlines the multifaceted services offered by Idaho Families, focusing on personalized support systems.

• Mentors: Each family is paired with a dedicated mentor to guide them through crises toward stability.

• Host Homes: These provide temporary safe spaces for children, maintaining parental rights and fostering extended family-like relationships.

• Support Partners: Volunteers offer specialized assistance, such as financial aid, home repairs, and counseling.

Christine [05:08]: "We have 63 referring partners... when someone contacts us, it's because the family's in crisis."

4. Engaging Churches and Recruiting Volunteers

The conversation shifts to the organization’s strategy for involving local churches in their mission. Christine explains the process of partnering with churches, differentiating Idaho Families from typical benevolence teams by offering holistic, long-term support rather than one-time financial assistance.

Christine [10:03]: "We equip and mobilize the body of Christ to bring assistance to families in crisis... we surround them with the body of Christ."

5. Encouraging Individuals to Become Mentors

Addressing potential volunteers' concerns, Christine emphasizes that no prior experience is necessary. Training is provided, and the focus is on building genuine, supportive relationships.

Christine [13:46]: "We train you... we ask that you treat these individuals as if they were your best friend or your brother or your sister."

She underscores the importance of companionship, accountability, and encouragement in helping families achieve their goals.

6. Success Stories: Impact of Idaho Families

Christine shares compelling examples of how Idaho Families has transformed lives, illustrating the organization's effectiveness in real-world scenarios.

• Grandmother’s Story [14:59]: A grandmother caring for her grandchildren received respite care, which led to a surprising turn where she assumed legal guardianship, ensuring the children's stability while preserving family bonds.

Christine [16:00]: "It was an amazing thing that God did... they're doing great. They're thriving."

• Teenager Support [17:46]: Highlighting their efforts to support teenage parents, Christine discusses plans to establish a teen boys' home, aiming to provide specialized mentorship and family reconciliation.

7. Future Plans: Expanding Support for Teen Boys and Beyond

Looking ahead, Idaho Families is set to launch a dedicated home for teenage boys, addressing a significant gap in support services. Christine outlines the vision for this initiative, which includes assigning individual mentors and facilitating family reunification where possible.

Christine [19:25]: "The key here is that we would engage with their parents and try and bring reconciliation and wholeness back to the family."

8. Christian Foundation and Inclusivity

While Idaho Families operates from a Christian foundation, Christine emphasizes inclusivity, welcoming non-Christians to contribute as support partners. This approach broadens their support network and fosters a diverse community of helpers.

Christine [20:09]: "We only recruit our volunteers and our staff through the body of Christ... but we will offer our services to anyone."

9. How to Support Idaho Families

In wrapping up, Jen encourages listeners to support Idaho Families through donations, volunteering, or prayer. Christine provides contact information and underscores the importance of community involvement, especially in rural areas where resources are scarce.

Christine [21:12]: "We would love it if people around the nation would be praying because... we're in a rural area... God would like us to branch out at some point."

Listeners are directed to visit idahopefamilies.org for more information and opportunities to help.

Conclusion

Episode #070 of the Them Before Us Podcast offers a profound insight into how faith-based organizations like Idaho Families are essential in supporting families in crisis. Through comprehensive services, community engagement, and a commitment to holistic care, Idaho Families exemplifies the impactful intersection of faith and social support in upholding children's rights and family integrity.

Jen [25:13]: "Thanks for your work and for joining us today."

Christine [25:20]: "Thanks for Your work... was a game changer for us. So thank you."

This episode serves as an inspiring resource for advocates, church members, and anyone passionate about fostering stable, loving environments for children and families in need.