When a child has been removed from their home due to abuse or neglect, it can be the most frightening time of their life. Fear and uncertainty are common among victims. Add to these a new living situation with strangers and it is almost intolerable for their young minds. However, in time they will relax, trust, and begin to heal knowing that they are safe because they are now part of the Kinderhaven family.

Kinderhaven has been a blessed and much-loved nonprofit in Sandpoint since 1996. When a crisis arises, an organization can also be faced with fear and uncertainty. Kinderhaven, however, is thriving, according to Executive Director Jennifer Plummer.

“Like all families, the stay-at-home order was a challenge at first. The abrupt end to normal life was confusing and frustrating for the kids, but our staff made some creative adjustments and we are all doing very well! We have a schedule throughout the day to keep things structured but a lot of fun as well. The innovation and talents of our staff have really shone through these last weeks.”

The children and staff at Kinderhaven have been so touched by the generosity of many supporters, time after time, these past weeks with the stay-at-home order. From food and supplies, to Easter baskets and fun for the kids, the phones and doorbell have been ringing with businesses and individuals wanting to help in any way they can.

“The support of our community is always such a blessing, and the way people reached out to us during this crisis was inspirational — many simply picking up the phone to make sure we were OK,” Plummer said.

The Pack River Store came through in the biggest way possible. They had money left over from their lunch program and made a call to Kinderhaven. Brittany at PRS gathered a list of needs for the kids and staff, went to Costco, and delivered every item on Kinderhaven’s list. They have even offered to shop for Kinderhaven on future runs to the famous bulk supply store.

Generosity has also poured in from Horizon Credit Union, Panhandler Pies, Tomlinson Sotheby’s agents, Beta Sigma Phi, Betsy Dalessio, Barb Merritt, Teri Nickisch, Ray and Bert Lavoy, Nancy Albanese, the Bowen Family, The Food Bank, Diana Hunter, St. Joseph’s and Wesley Dustman of Selkirk Press.

Kinderhaven is forever grateful to all donors, who ensure maintaining a strong and vibrant fortress of safety and compassion for children now and into the future. An influx in child abuse cases is expected once the stay-home order is lifted, and Kinderhaven is prepared with its loving environment and trained staff to offer healing to them as they enter the front door.

Kathy Chambers is the board chairman for Kinderhaven and volunteer coordinator for the nonprofit.