The New Bedford’s Family Resource and Development Center Impact

New Bedford’s Family Resource & Development Center (FRDC) operated by the United Way of Greater New Bedford is part of a growing network of 28 Family Resource Centers across the state. The FRDC supports parents with children from birth to 18 years old with services and resources that promote self-sufficiency, strengthen family bonds, and connect them with their community.

The FRDC’s multi-lingual staff helps families find and connect to resources such as housing support, utility assistance, legal help, employment, childcare, and behavioral health services. The Family Center itself is equipped with a full library of resources and computers for families to utilize for housing or job searches.

Additionally, the FRDC offers an array of parent education classes and groups such as the Nurturing Fathers Program and Support Group, the Parent Support Group, Pipeline Workshops, and the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Groups. For more information, call 508-994-4521.

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Darlene Spencer is the Director of Family Support Initiatives.

“We know that being a parent at times can be difficult,” Spencer said. “The FRDC is here to partner with parents and caregivers to identify and connect them to the supports and resources that can best help with their family’s needs. The FRDC is a place where we value all families.”

During the pandemic, the FRDC connected hundreds of families with much-needed resources to prevent food insecurity and stabilize housing. The staff also became a lifeline to families that needed emotional support during times when parents and their children felt isolated in their homes.

The staff has also taken the lead on helping families affected by the recent fires in New Bedford. They have been instrumental in placing families into temporary housing, connecting them with food and clothing, and finding peace of mind.

The Family Resource and Development Center is located in Downtown New Bedford and is open Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 5 pm, by appointment only. For more information, visit unitedwayofgnb.org or call 508-994-4521 and make an appointment today.

The Family Resource and Development Center is funded by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services and the Department of Children and Families.

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