When individuals walk through the doors of our Family Resources Centers (FRCs), they are met with a welcoming environment and staff ready to help without judgement. For over 20 years, FRCs have been a reliable source of support for families in Stanislaus County. These centers are more than just buildings. They are vibrant hubs of connection for families. Parents know they can come here for parenting classes, school readiness support, or simply a listening ear that can connect them to the resources they need. Families who first connect during a crisis often remain linked for years. Last fiscal year, we served 6,007 individuals and 2,291 families across our locations in Ceres, Newman, Oakdale, and Patterson. 

FRCs partner with local government and county agencies, school districts, police and fire departments. These longstanding relationships ensure that no matter the reason a person comes into a Family Resource Center, they will receive support and guidance. If the service they ask for isn’t something we provide directly, we connect them to the right place or partner. For families, that means they don’t have to figure out which agency, department, or program to contact next.

This year has brought major funding shifts across our FRC programs. To better serve community needs, we have made several changes to our services. While some of our long-standing services remain, others have been reduced or adjusted to meet new requirements. Office hours have been expanded to include weekday afternoons and Saturdays. This allows staff to meet with families at the times that work best for them, making services more accessible. The goal is to engage as many parents as possible in preventative resources. Parenting classes and workshops have increased, thanks to the strong partnership with First 5 Stanislaus. Food distribution locations were reduced but continue to occur in 2 locations, and we offer support with CalFresh applications at all locations. Drop-in community support and housing assistance are now limited and have eligibility requirements.

More than ever, FRCs continue to use a “no wrong door” approach, meaning that individuals can walk through our doors with any need, big or small, and we’ll make sure they leave with support, guidance, or a referral. Lucrecia, a current client, says, “It’s important that these programs exist because they truly help people.” These changes have been an adjustment for families, but staff remain committed to connecting them with resources.

FRCs have shown that they are not only a resource center, but a bridge, linking families, systems, and community members together to create stronger, more resilient neighborhoods. Family Strengthening Director, Kaylee Brown, shares, “Even with these shifts, our mission remains unchanged: to strengthen families by recognizing and building on their strengths.” FRCs continue to serve as trusted hubs, a safe place to ask questions, get support, and connect with resources and other families. To learn more and to support your local FRC visit: centerforhumanservices.org/frcs

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