BRYC Interview with La Causa Crisis Nursery & Respite Center

Wisconsin Investment Programs: La Causa Crisis Nursery

Overview of La Causa Crisis Nursery

• Carl Schoendorf introduces himself as the director of La Causa Crisis Nursery, a 12-bed licensed shelter in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

• The nursery's primary goal is child abuse prevention by providing care to families in high-stress situations such as domestic violence and homelessness.

Services Offered

• The nursery offers various services including emergency care for children while parents attend appointments or deal with crises, allowing stays from one hour up to three days.

• Families can schedule ahead for care or call for last-minute assistance depending on availability; the facility accommodates a maximum of 12 children aged zero to twelve.

Licensing and Regulations

• La Causa is licensed by the state as a shelter care facility, which has specific regulations regarding room sizes, staff qualifications, and child-to-staff ratios.

• The licensing process includes inspections twice a year to ensure compliance with state regulations.

Staffing Structure

• All caregivers at the nursery are employees rather than volunteers; this ensures accountability and safety for the children under their care.

• Volunteers supplement staff but cannot be left alone with children; they undergo background checks similar to paid staff.

Funding Challenges

• The crisis nursery operates on an annual budget of $650,000 primarily funded through grants and fundraising efforts.

• Despite challenges in meeting budget goals each year, the organization continues its mission without charging families for services provided.

Community Impact and Future Aspirations

• Carl expresses interest in expanding services due to high demand but acknowledges that funding remains a significant barrier.

• He emphasizes that providing respite care is worthwhile as it positively impacts both parents and children by reducing stress levels during crises.

Invitation for Engagement

• Carl invites interested individuals to tour the facility located at 522 West Walker Street in Milwaukee and encourages community involvement through donations or volunteering.