Family Support Programming
Since 2014 the JFS Family Support Team has been helping Western New York’s families navigate the challenges of raising children in 21st century America. We work to improve the lives of children and families by increasing Protective Factors for families at greater risk as a result of displacement, trauma, and other life stressors.
Our Family Resource Centers offer a variety of supports to caregivers of children ages 0-18. From evidence-based parenting and life-skills education to peer support groups and one-on-one assistance, JFS Family Resource Centers help parents and caregivers feel more confident, strengthen connections, meet basic needs, and promote family well-being.
To ensure all families are supported to be strong, resourced, and resilient, we implement a range of programming. Services offered include:
- Parenting Education and Support
- Social Supports
- Resource Navigation and Referrals
- Life Skills Education
- Walk-in services are available at both our Buffalo and Niagara Falls Resource Centers
Our work is grounded in the 5 Protective Factors, knowing that when these protective factors are in place, families are healthier and children are safer.
The 5 Protective Factors include:
– Knowledge of Parenting and Child Development
– Concrete Support on Times of Need
– Social Supports
– Parental Resilience
– Social and Emotional Competence of Children
To promote these 5 Protective Factors, the JFS Family Resource Centers work to achieve two main goals:
– Ensure all parents in WNY have access to parenting education and support that empowers the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that promote optimal child development and well-being.
– Ensure all families in WNY are connected to the resources and supports they need to be strong, resourced, and resilient.