How We Work

Focus on the Children was founded in 1993 by Robert B. Jones, former CEO of Jones Chemicals with the assistance of Merl Galusha, then Pastor of the UP Stone Church of Caledonia.

The agency follows the same mission today as set forth by Mr. Jones in 1993: to serve the needs of children in Livingston County that cannot be met by any other agency or program. Our full time Case Manager, Crissa Gilbert may choose to provide a grant to assist a child which will be sent to a service provider by our Treasurer, Merl Galusha.

Ways we hear about a child in need:

1. Self-referrals / family     

2. Other agencies / programs   

3.  School counselors   

4. Doctors and other health professionals in the county

Sometimes FOTC does not need to make a financial grant on a client’s behalf. We also inform our families of the various programs and resources available in the county or state. We provide advocacy and assistance to help families get back on their feet and stay on their feet.

Special Programs:

In addition to assistance with bills and services, FOTC also extends and invitation to each of our families to our Back-to-School and Christmas Programs. The BTS program provides each child with a book bag filled with school supplies and a gift card to Payless Shoes.  Our Christmas Program provides gifts to children and their family.

NEW! KidCare

KidCare assists families struggling with the cost of childcare on a time-limited basis.

FOTC Board of Directors
Case Manager: Crissa Gilbert

Elizabeth Sherwood, Pres.
Merl Galusha, Treas.
Judy Schweichler, Sec.
Marjorie Jones, V.P.
E.A. Sears
Steve Boscoe
Ellen Dwyer
Laura Canne
Jeff Deragon