Family Support Center


		The mission of Madonna Place is to provide services which strengthen families, promote health, and help to prevent child abuse and neglect.

Directory of Services Home Family Support Center Fatherhood Initiative Families First Nurturing Connections Parents In Partnership Family School Connection Board of Directors Staff Directory Classes / Groups Mad Science at MP Volunteer Opportunities Employment Opportunities Group Facilitator Donations ANNUAL APPEAL Diapers Hygiene Products Needed News and Events Dodge Ball Tournament March 27, 2010		Family Support Center Drop-In Center Hours Monday - Friday 9:00a.m. to 3:00p.m.
		Our goal is to provide the families we serve with the knowledge, education and confidence needed to successfully parent. Helping them to build a strong support system and cope with life's daily struggles, are also emphasized. Staff is available to act as a sounding board, to offer advice and guidance and to direct parents to other appropriate resources. Drop-In Center The Drop-In Center provides parents with respite. A place where they can come with their children to socialize with other parents, talk with staff, receive information and referrals, use the client telephone, or browse in our donations room where there is an abundance of adult and children’s clothing, toys, books, baby equipment and household goods. Playroom While parents are engaged in support center activities, their children can enjoy the playroom. A staff person, with a background in early childhood education is on hand to provide developmentally appropriate activities, which stimulate the learning and creative potential of the children. The child care staff person will also assist parents with appropriate behavior management techniques when needed. Educational Classes/Support Group Classes are offered at various times during the day in an effort to meet the scheduling needs of the clients. Most classes are typically part of a six-week series. Curriculum materials are utilized which cover such areas as child development, parenting styles, behavior management, communication, health, safety and nutrition. Craft and exercise classes are also provided periodically. Emergency Needs Assistance We receive grants to purchase new baby equipment, formula and diapers that are distributed on an emergency basis for those clients experiencing economic crisis. Unfortunately, due to safety considerations we cannot accept or distribute used car seats. Family Enrichment Services (FES) Home based parenting education for families in which children are at risk of abuse or neglect. Family Enrichment Specialists spend a minimum of 2 hours face to face per week for 4-6 months to teach, model, and coach families in order to reduce the risk for abuse and/or neglect. Family Enrichment Specialists will help families understand reasonable expectations for their child based upon age and developmental level; show ways to engage children in activities that increase and enhance bonding and attachment; identify and prioritize family needs; navigate and utilize community resources; establish structure and daily routines for their children; establish appropriate boundaries and discipline; and work on creating a family budget.

What can you find at Madonna Place? New Friends Phone Availablity Parenting Classes, Day & Evening Anger Management (Classes or Support) Free, On-site Child Care Nutrition & Health Information Educational & Self Improvement Programs Employment Education, Information and Support Emergency Supplies & Baby Equipment Donated Clothing & Household Goods Referrals, Counseling & Advocacy Family Support Exercise/Stress Reduction Craft Activities What can you do to help? *Try...*

		240 Main Street, Norwich, Connecticut (860) 886-6600 Fax: (860) 892-5411 email: madonna.place@snet.net