FAMILY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

To provide individual, group, or family assessment, evaluation and counseling to parents or guardians of children in the Head Start Program. The program also provides support and guidance to parents or guardians through information, education, referral and follow-up services.

Accomplishments
The Prevention Council's Family Assistance Counselor worked with 25 families who were referred to the program by other local human service agencies. Of those 25, she saw 12 families on a weekly basis throughout the year.

FAQ
How does a family become eligible for the Family Assistance Program?
A family with a child in the Head Start program is referred through their child's teacher or family advocate.

Where does the counseling take place?
Counseling usually takes place in the client's home. If that's not possible, meetings can be arranged at the Head Start site.

What is the cost?
There is no charge or co-payment for this service.

Testimonial
"Laura" was a mom of four, living with an abusive alcoholic husband. After several months of counseling through the Family Assistance Program, she began attending Al-Anon meetings and then contacted Domestic Violence. With the help and support of the Family Assistance counselor and DV staff, she felt empowered to move out of the home she shared with her husband to a safer and healthier environment for herself and her children.

A dynamic, interactive program specifically designed for families with 10-14-year-old children, the Iowa Strengthening Families program encourages parents and youth to focus on improving family communication, avoiding drug and alcohol programs, and preparing for the teen years. Youth participate in fun, interactive sessions that help them learn to appreciate their families, handle frustrations, and resist peer pressure. Parents and caregivers discuss the characteristics of children in this age group, talk about how to set reasonable rules and consequences, and how to show love while also setting limits. In addition to the separate workgroups for both parents and young people, each week's workshop also includes time for parents and kids to work together on the skills they've learned separately.
 

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