Image by Jule Berlin

In a recent article from Vision, Judith Wood points out that: "occasionally a family crisis leaves a child suddenly without his or her normal support system of adults."

When this happens, rather than allowing a child to fall to the responsibility of impersonal social programs, community families would—in ideal circumstances—bridge the gap until the crisis is resolved.

"At such times, an existing peer friendship is even more precious," notes Wood, "especially when it comes with a ready-made family. The encouragement and help offered in these cases can make all the difference as to how a young person copes."