Free · Every Sunday · San Antonio
Respite care for special needs families
Caregiving does not take a day off — but you can. Every Sunday morning, the Ark Room at Saved By Grace Church gives your child a trained buddy, a calm sensory space, and a Bible lesson made for the way they learn, while you get a real breath of rest.
What a Sunday looks like
- Step 1
Check-in
Intake form, numbered tag for your child, matching card for you.
- Step 2
Sensory
Regulating play — swings, squeeze, movement, quiet corners.
- Step 3
Worship
Sing, clap, listen, or wear headphones. All of it counts.
- Step 4
Story
An adapted Bible lesson matched to your child's level.
- Step 5
Craft
Hands-on, no-fail, take-home art tied to the story.
Who we serve
- Autism and sensory processing differences
- Down syndrome and developmental disabilities
- Cerebral palsy and physical or medical needs
- Non-speaking and AAC communicators
- Ages 4 through adult — siblings welcome
How to start
- Call or text Nikki so we can prepare for your child.
- Fill out the intake form at home or at the door.
- Arrive Sunday morning and check in for your numbered tag.
- Stay or step out — whatever your family needs that day.
Curious what we teach? See our adapted Bible lessons.
Common questions
What is respite care for special needs families?
Respite care is trusted, supervised care that gives parents and caregivers a break. At Project Noah, that break happens every Sunday morning in the Ark Room while your child is safe, engaged, and learning about the love of Jesus.
Is there a cost?
No. Project Noah is completely free. We are a ministry of Saved By Grace Church and a program of A Healing Word Ministries, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
Who can come?
Children, teens, and adults with autism, developmental disabilities, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, sensory differences, or medical complexity. Our current friends range from age 4 to 73. Siblings are welcome too.
How do you keep my child safe?
Every family checks in at the door and receives a numbered tag; the matching number card is required at pick-up. Volunteers are screened and trained, and we use a one-to-one buddy model whenever a child needs it.
What if my child needs a break or can't speak?
Breaks are always allowed and never earned. We use break, help, all done, and more cards, honor AAC devices, signs, gestures, and pointing, and treat every form of communication as a real answer.
Do I have to stay on site?
You are welcome to attend the worship service, rest in the lobby with coffee, or stay in the room with your child. Whatever helps your family most is the right choice.
Come as you are
Saved By Grace Church · 1326 Pleasanton Rd, San Antonio, TX 78214. No paperwork required to visit for the first time, no cost, and no need to explain your child's hardest days. All aboard — everyone belongs.