On March 9, 2016, the Children’s Trust celebrated with Square One the opening of its eighth Family Center in Springfield. Recognizing that families need and deserve support through the ups and downs of raising children, the Children’s Trust named Square One its partner. The event was held in Square One’s main office, where the agency was pleased to receive Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, Children’s Trust Executive Director Suzin Bartley, and other guests.

“Square One has for many years wanted a Family Center to expand our services to families,” explained Joan Kagan, Square One President & CEO, during her speech. “We have high rates of child abuse and neglect and poverty, but this Family Center will help us provide services to support these parents”.

Family Centers are community hubs where parents go to get support navigating the joys and challenges of parenting. They can tap into community resources, learn new parenting skills, get individualized family support during times of stress, meet other families, and participate in activities and programs that support them in their care-giving role.

 “We are really proud to recognize Square One for their work. It is clear that they care deeply for this community,” stated Bartley. “We all need help, we all need support, and Family Centers are the place where you can find it. Kids in this community deserve all the opportunities they can get.”

Mayor Sarno expressed his gratitude to all the partners and how important it is to have a nurturing center for families. “You can’t put a price tag when it comes to helping our people.”

Since 1883, Square One has been committed to ensuring that all children and families have the opportunity to succeed at school, at work, and in life by providing educational programs, family support services, health and fitness resources, and a voice in the community. They believe and affirm that children grow up to become better educated and more successful academically, emotionally and socially when they have high-quality early education, nurturing adults to care for them, and a safe and healthy community in which to live.

The story was featured in MassLive (for the photo gallery, click here), and WAMC (Northeast Public Radio).

To learn more about our Family Centers, click here.