The International Day of Families is celebrated every year on May 15th to promote awareness of the importance of families as the basic unit of society. Families play a critical role in shaping the lives of individuals and communities, providing care and support, and building strong relationships. However, many families face numerous challenges, including poverty, unemployment, lack of access to healthcare, education, and other essential services.
Community Action Agencies (CAAs) are non-profit organizations that work to support vulnerable families and individuals to overcome these challenges and improve their well-being.
CAAs such as Step Forward work with low-income families, individuals, and communities to address the root causes of poverty and provide assistance and support to help them become self-sufficient. Each offer a range of services, including access to affordable housing, healthcare, education, and job training programs. Agencies work with families to develop personalized plans that meet their specific needs, which can include financial education, budgeting, and credit counseling. They also provide emergency assistance, such as food, shelter, and utility assistance, to help families overcome short-term financial crises.
CAAs work to strengthen families by promoting healthy relationships, positive parenting, and child development. They provide parenting classes and support groups, early childhood education programs, and resources to help parents create a nurturing environment for their children. CAAs also work to prevent child abuse and neglect by providing education and support services to parents and caregivers.
Step Forward is proud to play a critical role in promoting community development by engaging with local stakeholders, businesses, and organizations to build a stronger, more resilient community.
To find out how Step Forward is serving families through the Home Energy Assistance Program, click here.
For information regarding emergency assistance, including rental assistance, click here.
For information about how we support families through personal development, such as Baby and Mommy Support, parenting, counseling and more, click here.
For information about the job training and employment connections we offer through professional development, click here.
To enroll your child or children in Early Head Start or Head Start, click here.