Family Resource Centers (FRCs): what are they, and why are they vital to the well-being of our communities?

At Children's Home Society of Washington (CHSW), we like to think of an FRC as a one-stop shop where families and individuals can get all the help they need at a centralized location. FRCs offer a variety of services that are designed to empower our communities through the Family Pathways Framework. This involves three key areas:

·        General services, like walk-in information or referrals to another organization

·        Center services, such as programs and services at the FRC for early learning, behavioral health, parenting or life skills

·        Family development, to set goals and track progress

Every family deserves to succeed, and we’re here to help. CHSW operates eight FRCs across the state, each providing a safe and welcoming space where families can access various resources and services to help improve their well-being.

For example, we recently enjoyed serving the Kapoors*, a Hindu family who came to us with multiple needs. Despite transportation and language barriers, our staff was able to provide them with support, like connecting them with a new car seat, diapers, and clothing for their children – and helping them fill out applications for healthcare enrollment and other public assistance programs.

It’s important to hire staff from the same communities they will be serving, especially when it comes to supporting families from different backgrounds. This way, our team can offer personalized and effective help based on shared experiences. 

Ayana is one such staff member from the Ethiopian community who was once a former participant in our home visiting program. Because of her experience with the program and interest in helping other families like hers, she was hired to help interpret and facilitate a Play and Learn group offered in the Amharic language. She also provides outreach to and enrollment for other Ethiopian families who could benefit from our home visits and other services. Ayana and her daughters continue to be involved in the Center in other ways and have volunteered at family events held by the center throughout the year.

Stories like the Kapoors’ and Ayana’s are living proof that the people we help today can become the light for the families we’ll serve tomorrow. Our team provides a supportive and non-judgmental approach to assessing a family’s needs while providing a clear path forward. We are proud to serve as trusted partners to families so they never have to walk life’s path alone. 

*All names have been changed to protect anonymity

Kristen Conte is the director of marketing and communications for CHSW.