Richmond County Initiative Aims to Support Families Beyond Early Childhood with New ,000 Grant
In a significant step toward strengthening family support and resources, the Richmond County Partnership for Children (RCPC) has unveiled an innovative new program known as “Forever Families,” backed by a generous one-time grant of ,000. This funding will enable the RCPC to extend its reach and assistance to families even after their children age out of the agency’s typical services, which traditionally cater to children up to the age of five.
Dr. Katrina Chance, the Executive Director of the RCPC, emphasized the importance of this initiative, particularly as families transition after their children reach school age. “Our smart start agency only funds up to kindergarten or up to five years. What we said we are going to do with the ,000 is help those parents who come into our Circle of Parents group that age out. We do not want the families to come, reach the age of 5, and we just turn them loose. No, we’re not going to do that,” she explained. With “Forever Families,” RCPC aims to ensure that families feel continuously supported until they are ready to navigate their next steps with confidence.
The mission of the RCPC is to enhance the quality of life for all families in Richmond County, and this new initiative is a testament to their commitment. RCPC utilizes its state and federal funding to implement a variety of programs that cover the continuum of early childhood development, from prenatal care up to age five. One of the incredible services made possible through their partnerships is the collaboration with the Diaper Bank of North Carolina, which has provided diapers and feminine hygiene products to over 15 local families via referrals from RCPC.
As children transition into childcare settings, the RCPC also offers childcare subsidies, significantly alleviating the financial burden for over 350 families currently enrolled in their childcare program. This financial assistance, along with the emotional and social support provided in their Circle of Parents program, ensures that families have access to both resources and community.
The Circle of Parents program, which was launched in response to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, serves as a vital support network for parents. Initially starting with two groups, one at Place of Grace and another central group that began virtually, the program has grown to include both in-person and online gatherings, allowing parents to share experiences and advice in a safe, understanding environment.
Joanna Crump, a parent leader within the Circle of Parents, highlighted the transformative power of these groups. With her children aged 2 and 5, Crump expressed her hope that the new grant will help expand their reach to even more families. “They’re wonderful. They helped me, and they can help other parents with their kids,” she said, underscoring the impact of the community support system.
Moreover, Dobbins Heights Parks Director Angeline Kendall-David praised the program’s dedication to discretion and understanding regarding modern parenting challenges. She offered the town’s recreation facilities for Circle of Parents events, noting, “What goes on in the Circle of Parents stays there. We just take care of each other, and show our love for each one of them, and I am so thankful to be a part of it.” Her enthusiasm is not just personal; her nephew also benefits from the program, exemplifying the program’s ripple effect throughout the community.
The momentum from this ,000 grant has fueled Dr. Chance’s ambitions to seek additional funding opportunities for the RCPC. In her call to action, she stated, “Put money in that, so our county can move forward with early care and education. It all starts at home with our children. If our children are not prepared, then our economy is not prepared in the long run.”
This newly established initiative represents a proactive approach to child and family support, highlighting the importance of ongoing community resources. With the “Forever Families” program, RCPC is not just helping families while their children are young; they are building a strong foundation for future generations, ensuring that all families in Richmond County have the tools and community they need to thrive. As the program develops, it promises to play a pivotal role in shaping the well-being of families in the area, making Richmond County not just a place where children grow, but a community where families flourish.
