Our introduction
Our goal is to ensure every family has equal opportunity to access and utilize free emergency child care during a crisis or a disaster. Together with our partners, we keep children safe and cared for while the family finds a way to manage the crisis situation. Our goal is to reduce high levels of stress for the family, and the potential for child abuse or neglect.
Americans experienced an economic or personal crisis in 2025
Were Displaced by Disasters in 2025
Care for a Child with a Disability — Parenting is HARD!
have post-traumatic stress after a disaster
Violet’s family in Asheville, North Carolina, received 159 hours of free child care from 9 trauma-informed volunteers for 6 months after Hurricane Helene.
Let us introduce ourselves
We believe that every family has equal opportunity to utilize and access emergency child care and mental health, regardless of geography, income, religion, social beliefs, ethnicity, or family dynamics.
We know children are the most vulnerable during and after disasters. When disasters strike, children can be cut off from their family, their friends, and their home — and basic human needs, such as emotional care, education, food, water and medical care. Trauma exposure can also alter brain anatomy and functioning, inhibiting learning and memory processes. Studies show children exposed to disasters report trouble concentrating, which can interfere with learning at school and at home. We also know that when parents are stressed they are less likely to have compassion and patience, and more likely to yell at their children.
How it all came to be…
Through strategic alliances with partner organizations, we utilize a national network of volunteers who have been rigorously screened and vetted for emergency child care.
Child care volunteers drive to where the family is to provide free child care, including their home, a park, a playground, a hotel, or a hospital. Services can range from 5 hours to 30 days of support.
There is no criteria for families to use the services, no long application forms, and no high costs. Our child care services are 100% free of charge thanks to generous partners and volunteers who believe in our mission.
Value of
Volunteers come from all backgrounds — pediatric nurses, social workers, teachers, moms and grandparents, university students, Hollywood producers, and even a few actors!
I know that disasters affect children differently than they do adults. Mental stress from a disaster can be way harder on children because they don’t understand it and can’t process the trauma. I am excited to be a volunteer for National Emergency Child Care Network because I want to take steps to ensure the safety of the children, especially at the most important time for a family. As a mom, I know it can be life-changing for them!
Our volunteers are grateful for the time they give to parents, who are often really struggling. Our surveys have indicated that 100% of our families have treasured the experience, often having time to: sleep, take care of errands, attend a medical appointment, take time for respite, and make it to work without loss of income. Meaningful and productive activities, like providing child care at a time of great need for families in crisis, have helped our volunteers feel more connected to their local community.
Why we provide
Experiencing a disaster can cause stress for families.
After a disaster, children may experience anxiety, fear, sadness, sleep disruption, distressing dreams, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and anger outbursts.
Emergency Child Care Volunteers — from college students to first responders, grandparents and nurses — can have a positive impact on children’s mental stress to help them cope after a disaster.
Young children, under 8 years of age, are at particular risk for mental health issues. Some children may develop disorders like anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder after a disaster. Stress and emotional problems affect children’s physical health, quality of life and how they do at home, in school, and in their communities.