Developing A Statewide Network of Family Resource Centers In New Hampshire

From time to time, we publish a special article not tied to the maintenance of competence program, such as this one on family resource centers. The importance of providing support for all families, not only for those who at the moment might be labeled high risk, and the provision of a parental resource center are important concepts and represent a program that many pediatricians may want to initiate in their own communities. The lessons Dr. Chamberlin has learned will benefit those who try to develop such centers.—RJH

Introduction

Family resource centers are physical places in the community where all parents who have young children are welcome and can:

• Obtain respite from child care

• Learn parenting and other skills (domestic, job related, car repair)

• Access support groups to help them through various life transitions (new baby, child born with a disability, move into a new area, separation or divorce)

• Obtain information about how to access needed services

• Participate in social activities

Resource centers also serve as a base for outreach into the surrounding area for programs such as home visits to new parents, formation of community-based play groups, and child development and parenting classes for teens in high school.

Determining the Need

These centers are needed because the past few decades have brought profound changes in the conditions under which families are trying to raise children. The economy has shifted from manufacturing to lower paid service jobs. Corporate mergers and downsizing have eliminated jobs and health and retirement benefits. High divorce rates and out-of-wedlock pregnancies have led to large increases in single parents trying to raise children and earn money with work outside the home. These job and family changes have forced many families to move away from traditional support systems of grandparents and other relatives. State and local governments have cut back on the …