Respite is a short period of rest and relief for caregivers. Caregivers are usually a family member, friend or spouse/partner. Respite gives caregivers a much-needed break to join in community activities, rest, and renew their energy.

Traditionally, we have relied on the sources that most parents use for time off—grandparents, relatives, friends, especially for people who know about looking for respite care. Whether informal or formal these arrangements can all be considered forms of respite.

Benefits 
Respite for foster parents was started as a way for human service agencies to support and recognize the outstanding care given by foster parents. In some programs, respite is a regular part of the family support package offered to families caring for children and adults with multiple needs.

But respite is not just for life and death situations.. It’s a very positive thing.”

Made up of respite service providers:

• find out about the respite resources  
• learn what must be done to access those resources, and 
• assess respite needs, particularly for unserved or underserved populations.

If you have concerns, consider inviting Rehoboth respite program staff members and respite providers to discuss their services with your local foster parent group or county foster parent association. Also, do not hesitate to ask potential respite care providers for references, particularly from families who have used our respite services.
If you need respite, your first step should be to contact Us to know about the respite options available in your community. As a consumer of respite care, we pay particular attention to: you and your children