Data-informed recommendations for faith communities desiring to support vulnerable children and families during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

ABSTRACT The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened risk factors in vulnerable families. Historically, faith communities have provided support crises but may lack clear direction on how to best aid during the pandemic. The current study provides data-informed recommendations for faith communities to support vulnerable families during the pandemic. Eighty-seven non-government organizations serving 454,637 vulnerable families completed a questionnaire. Results examined (1) the needs of families and NGOs during the pandemic and (2) opportunities for faith communities to engage this population. Data revealed areas of need were material support, spiritual nurture, funding, and disseminating information. Based on these findings, seven recommendations were made.