In July of 2023, The Home opened the Harbor Area Family Resource Center (FRC) in Chelsea, Mass. It is the second program of its kind for our agency and part of a network of 32 centers across the Commonwealth. On average, an FRC works with about 610 families per year. Our Harbor Area Family Resource Center has served 1599 families since its inception, and that number climbs every day.
Some families come once a month, others multiple times a week. They first arrive seeking support with a basic need, like food, housing or help navigating a difficult situation or system. Within moments, our staff makes them feel comfortable and seen. They’re addressed by name, offered coffee and refreshments and discover they have access to services, support groups and programs tailored to help them reach their goals, and they spread the word.
School Liaison Leslie Flores, who was born and raised in Chelsea, speaks to the FRC’s hospitality. “I don’t know of another organization that is so homey, or interpersonal. We really connect with every person we see.”
The scope of the work is broad. The FRC supports families whose children are struggling through referrals, family support plans and parenting education, connects families to resources that address their unique needs and helps them navigate systems, such as housing and education. They assist with materials, like produce, clothing and diapers, and offer a wealth of programs, from a young parent support group to special education workshops to grandparents’ groups to computer classes. They encourage their clients to ask for what they need. Over the past two years, the FRC has helped people with everything from getting a cell phone to finding a house.
The small staff extends their reach by nurturing connections within the community. “We try to be an open door, not only to families but to community partnerships,” says Program Director Kristina Peralta, LICSW. Thinking strategically allows them to say “yes” when new needs arise. So, they table at schools and attend trainings and meetings in the area. “We’re always everywhere,” explains Leslie. “We have to learn more, in order to give more.”
The regard our new FRC holds in the community is a result of this commitment. So is its considerable impact. Families feel connected to staff and often reach out to share good news and their families’ accomplishments. The tight-knit team couldn’t be happier when they do, and they’re proud to be helping so many. Says Kristina, “There are a lot of places people could go for support, but they are making the choice to come here.”
