We all have beloved rituals and traditions we associate with the holiday season. Although Christmas is the dominant holiday of December, there are several other multicultural celebrations. Here are brief descriptions of the festivities- Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday, often referred to as the “Festival of Lights.” Hanukkah is celebrated for eight days and nights, starting…
Each December, we find ourselves reflecting upon the year gone by. We think of our successes as well as our challenges and vow to make those New Year’s resolutions. Last week at Children’s Friend, we had our final management meeting of 2021 where we took a moment to reflect on our Vision 2025 journey, a…
When we say it takes an entire community to pull off something as momentous as our Holiday Drive, we truly mean it! Every year, the Children’s Friend community comes through for our most vulnerable children and families and helps us ensure that children have warm clothing, coats and toys for the holidays. We absolutely could…
I had the privilege of participating in the Nurse-Family Partnership virtual graduation on November 18th. There were twenty-five mothers and toddlers, who after more than two years of engagement, successfully completed this evidence-based program. Also attending were state, national, and Children’s Friend and NFP program supporters. The moms shared how much of a positive impact…
I often use my blog to update you on the great work taking place at Children’s Friend, and to share opportunities for you to help us out. This week, as we approach the Thanksgiving Holiday, it seems very appropriate to simply say – Thank You – for all you have done, and continue to do,…
We are acutely aware of the Pandemics’ impact upon the Kids & Families Children’s Friend serves, especially as related to majorly heightened levels of Toxic Stress. Toxic Stress and its impact on Child Development has been a topic of this Blog in the past. This time we will look briefly at the concept of “Resilience”….
Each of our Armed Forces has a ceremonial process called, Trooping the Line. It usually entails an inspecting dignitary asking questions of a relational nature like: “Where’s your home?” “How long have you been a member of your unit?” “Do you have any problems/complaints?” As well as job-related questions. While this may seem like small…
This morning, Rhode Island Executive Office of Health and Human Services’ Secretary Womazetta Jones hosted a roundtable discussion at Children’s Friend, with pediatricians, legislators, and community and state partners regarding Governor Dan McKee’s Rhode Island Rebounds plan. It was particularly impactful to hear first-hand from pediatricians and early interventionists how the pandemic has impacted their…
Last Friday, Children’s Friend hosted over 150 corporate partners, supporters, and friends on a beautiful afternoon at our 19th Annual Investing in Our Children Luncheon. This year was unique – we held the event at our very own Friendship Center. With little voices of laughter lofting through the air from the playground and a surprise…
COVID has brought significant challenges to us, our communities, and the families we serve. Now, Rhode Island is facing a staffing crisis in childcare, DCYF programs, Early Intervention, and more. This crisis impacts not only our own ability to serve families – but it also jeopardizes families’ access to these vital services in Rhode Island. …
