GARDNER PLACE
The mission of Gardner Place is to promote healthy interaction and bonding between children and their parents.

Our Philosphy...
1. Children develop a more healthy self-esteem and self-concept when the bond between themselves and their parents is healthy, secure and mutually satisfying.

2. Family disruption is damaging to children. When parents are unavailable physically or emotionally, and/or the relationship is unhealthy and not mutually satisfying children suffer emotional and mental distress.

SUPERVISED VISITATION:
We will provde a safe environment where our trained Observation Specialists will facilitate scheduled visits between non-custodial parents and their children, grandchildren or step-children where concerns exist for the well being of the children. In our home-like setting, we provide a relaxed and safe atmosphere which helps promote spontaneous and natural parent child relationships. Fees for this service will be based on income and will be established at the time of intake.

PEACEFUL EXCHANGE:
We will provide a safe, neutral environment where visits with non-custodial parents or other family members can be facilitated. Fees for this service will be established at the time of intake.

WHO CAN USE THESE SERVICES?
Custodial and Non-custodial parents
Divorce/Separation Cases
Abusive, neglectful parents
Child Protective Services cases
Grandparents
Birth Parents (Open Adoptions)

WHO CAN MAKE REFERRALS?
Courts
Child Protective Services
Attorneys
Self-referrals

REASONS FOR REFERRALS:
Domestic Violence, Substance Abuse, Mental Illness, Retardation, High Conflict, Abduction Risk, Child Abuse/Neglect (CPS), Long separation/paternity, Open Adoption

HOW TO MAKE A REFERRAL:
Contact the intake coordinator at (865) 681-6323 to schedule intake for either service. Intake fee will be $25.00 per intake. Visit and exchange fees will be established at that time.

Our Needs:

Infant Changing Table
Bean Bag Chairs
TV/VCPs
Video Games
Children's Books
Childen's Puzzles
Lamps and End-Tables
Infant Toys
Toddler/Children's Riding toys
Porta-Cribs
High chairs
Board Games

GARDNER PLACE IS A PROGRAM OF THE BLOUNT COUNTY CHILDREN'S HOME. Donations to help offset expenses for those families who can only pay minimal amounts will be greatly appreciatged and will be tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law. All donations can be sent to our office designated for Gardner Place.