Recently CSNN Board member Bonnie Mitchinson asked Jane Schmit to share with the readers of Vision Now! the story of how Tender Care at Home began as a new and unique model in Christian Science nursing. The following is Jane's reply:

RECOGNIZING THE NEED

The idea for Tender Care at Home, in the St. Louis, Missouri area of the United States, began in 2006 with several local Christian Scientists who had experienced needs for such care. They started by holding informal meetings to hear what others might know on the subject. At every meeting the idea to establish a small home was met with enthusiasm. Later an ad hoc committee was formed. Their first activity was to determine the extent of the need from St. Louis to Kansas City. A questionnaire was sent to all Christian Science practitioners in that area. The engine behind the idea, Georgia Dearborn, telephoned each of these to introduce this form and ask if they would fill it out. One hundred percent of the questionnaires were returned with the message that there indeed was a need. More meetings were held with larger groups including the Missouri Committee on Publication, and representatives of Glenridge, The Principle Foundation, and Peace Haven. It was recognized that this idea needed regular workers to carry the idea to fruition. Several volunteers came forward at every meeting!

In addition, phone calls were made to people who had established similar homes in other areas of the country. Many do's and don'ts were learned. It was discovered that the way to move forward was fourfold: (1) incorporate and seek charitable tax status, (2) write By-laws and form a mission statement, (3) obtain financing for a residence, and (4) find an attractive home. A Board of Trustees was formed from members of the ad hoc committee; remaining members became a support group who often did the leg work. In April of 2008 a lovely ranch-style home was found in West County St. Louis. Soon all was accomplished. After making a few needed changes - (bathtubs to showers, hand rails, etc.), we held four open house gatherings for prospective residents and contributors. Staff was found in the area, training meetings were held, and we were ready for our first residents in early June, 2008. Joining the Organization for Residential Homes (ORH) was a next step. Tender Care at Home now has a page on their website.

MISSION STATEMENT

During the Board's first meetings By-laws were written and a mission statement formulated; it reads: "To serve the cause of Christian Science while providing long- term practical assistance that is dignified and respectful to those seeking healing." The statement of purpose is: a group home "providing Christian Scientists with personal assistance that is practical, dignified, and respectful, to remain flexible in order to best serve those we assist, and to make regular candid reports to those who support us." These statements were the fruit of early inspiration from Message for '01 by Mary Baker Eddy, pages 28 and 29 - the reminder to properly care for "aged reformers".

METAPHYSICAL SUPPORT FOR THE IDEA

Regular metaphysical support has been found to be an absolute essential to go forward with such an idea. Error may scream that the neighbors are concerned, the bills keep coming in but the money doesn't, staffing with economy and wisdom is difficult, or residents who can pay adequately to cover expenses are hard to find. Many temptations to fail such as these have been overcome.

BUSINESS MODEL

The business model we chose was a Board of Trustees - seven persons at this time; a Business Manager, and a Home Coordinator who is a Christian Science nurse listed in The Christian Science Journal. Our By-laws call for staffing with Class-taught Christian Scientists. The by-monthly payroll and annual audit is outsourced. Keeping income current with expenses means we need 4.5 residents - this is not always the case so we've made several adjustments in the daily organization to be wise stewards. We've also created a mailing list of contributors and sought funding for major projects by writing grant proposals to charitable foundations.

FRUITION

Our five bedroom home perfectly meets our needs. Beside individual bedrooms there are two private and two shared baths. The eat-in kitchen, which overlooks the patio and backyard is large and invites chats over tea cups and reading aloud. The living room is large with an entertainment end and a quiet area in front of the fireplace. The noon meal is served in our attractive dining room. The basement area includes a large space for caregiver training, plus laundry, food storage, and resident storage. Our caregiver training is similar to a course in beginning Christian Science nurses' training in a Christian Science nursing facility. Training includes early emphasis on ethics and communication, lifting, mobility, and assistance with personal care. Then I mentor the student on as many shifts as necessary - usually about one month. Our neighborhood is ideal for short walks and wheelchair rides. This is Tender Care at Home today, a living proof that this right idea is fulfilling its purpose and brings love and cheer to the dear ones who reside there.

We invite your questions by email: jsschmit@aol.com

Jane Schmit is a Christian Science nurse listed in The Christian Science Journal in Godfrey, Illinois, USA.

Watercolor of Tender Care at Home