As Child Abuse Prevention Month continues, we highlight a DePelchin program that strengthens families through practical, accessible services. Child abuse and neglect can often stem from parents facing constant stressors like food insecurity, unstable housing or lack of emotional support. DePelchin’s Family Resource Centers (FRC) help alleviate these stressors by serving as a welcoming, supportive hub where families can find resources, build community and strengthen resilience.
With locations in Houston, Texas City and San Antonio, DePelchin’s Family Resource Centers are accessible community spaces where families can drop by whenever they need help – no appointment required. As soon as they walk in, families are greeted by DePelchin staff who are ready to listen and support.
Project Supervisor for FRC Houston, Nydia Perkins, notes, “Most of the families who come to the FRC need assistance to locate basic needs support such as food, housing, utilities or help with other financial challenges. Many are also dealing with emotional stress, past trauma or difficulties with relationships.” Despite the diverse challenges faced by parents and caregivers, DePelchin leverages both is internal programs and community partnerships to connect families to an array of resources and support.
In addition to addressing urgent needs like financial assistance, the FRC offers support services that build positive, long-term outcomes:
Triple P (Positive Parenting Program) to help manage challenging behaviors at home, build positive parent-child relationships and increase confidence in parenting skills.
Seek Safety groups to develop healthy coping skills while addressing the impact of trauma to foster emotional safety and resilience.
Parent Cafes for parents to connect in a group setting, share experiences and learn ways to strengthen their families.
Money Smart program to increase financial literacy, budgeting skills, credit management and build long-term financial planning.
As families participate in these programs, they gain new tools, community and stability that empower them to overcome the every day stressors in their lives.
Perkins reflects on a previous client who, “is no living independently in her own apartment, caring for her son and maintaining reliable transportation.” Perkins continues, “She expressed that through the guidance, resources and encouragement she received from the FRC, [we] gave her the foundation to maintain her own home and manage responsibilities. She credited the FRC with helping her move from a place of uncertainty to one of strength and self-sufficiency.”
Child abuse prevention happens when parents and caregivers feel empowered, connected and equipped to meet their families’ needs. The home environment improves when families have access to support during difficult moments and when they don’t have to navigate challenges alone.
Perkins reminds parents and caregivers, “Everyone needs help sometimes, no matter what your situation may be. The support you receive today can create positive changes and long-term benefits for you and your family.” Her words reflect the mission of the Family Resource Center, offering a compassionate and judgement-free space where families can find hope.
To learn more about DePelchin’s Family Resource Centers, please visit www.depelchin.org/additional-programs/