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Programs

Our five basic programs are closely integrated, with frequent referrals among them. Most of our families are involved with more than one program, all at once or over a period of time. For example, a woman comes to our Food Pantry (Part of the Advocacy Program) because she cannot adequately feed her family. If she is pregnant, she will be asked if she is getting medical attention. If, as is often the case, she is receiving no care she will be referred to our Home Health Agency nurses who can provide free prenatal and postpartum home visits and appropriate medical referrals. In the home, the nurse observes her other children and assesses the newborn. If any of the children under the age of three years appear to be at risk for developmental delays, the family will be invited to participate in the Early Childhood's Home Based Child Development Program. If delays are present the family will be referred to our Early Intervention Program or another appropriate agency for older children. Parents are invited to participate in the Community Life Program parenting groups and ESL classes. The few troubled families who are at risk of losing their children to foster care will be referred to the Family Support/Preventive Program.