The Anderson College of Nursing and Health Professions (ACONHP) continues to facilitate a monthly respite program in Florence, Alabama. Local families are invited to bring their child with special needs and their siblings to monthly respite night events. The ACONHP respite program provides parents a “break” from the stress associated with caring for a child with special needs.

Each child participating in the respite program is assigned a buddy who provides direct supervision during the course of the evening. Direct interaction with respite participants is provided by ACONHP nursing students, faculty, staff, nurses and trained volunteers.

The respite program provides engaging social activities for each participant. The respite events include food, crafts, activities, entertainment, sensory-friendly games, and prizes for the children who attend.

The ACONHP respite program provides a valuable service to local families.

If you are interested in providing a donation please got to una.edu/give.

ACONHP Respite Program Contributors
2020 - The Anderson College of Nursing and Health Professions at the University of North Alabama received a $3,000 grant from the Alabama Lifespan Respite Network (ALRN) for the development and maintenance of the Respite Program. The ALRN is a program of the United Cerebral Palsy Centers of Huntsville and the Tennessee Valley. 
2021 - The Anderson College of Nursing and Health Professions at the University of North Alabama received a $5,000 grant from the Caring Foundation -Blue Cross Blue Shield for the maintenance of the Respite Program
2022 - The Anderson College of Nursing and Health Professions at the University of North Alabama received a $5,000 grant from The Stardust Club of Florence for the maintenance of the Respite Program

2022 - The Anderson College of Nursing and Health Professions Respite Program received a $4,800 contribution from the UNA Women of Influence toward the program's continued maintenance and support. 

Special Thanks To: Margerum Community Church, A&O Regional Design

For information about the respite program and ways that you can participate, contribute, or volunteer, please reach out to Dr. Rachel Winston at rwinston@una.edu.