Family Forward is dedicated to empowering families with young children by providing the resources, education, and support they need to thrive. We understand that raising a family is a journey filled with questions, and we are here to provide answers and assistance every step of the way. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about our Family Forward program:
Understanding Family Forward and Our Services
How Does Family Forward Support Families?
Family Forward is designed to be a comprehensive support system for pregnant parents and families raising children under the age of five. Our approach is rooted in intensive case management, ensuring personalized and effective assistance. We offer a range of vital services, including:
- Education for Healthy Beginnings: We provide crucial education on maintaining healthy pregnancies and understanding early childhood development, equipping parents with essential knowledge.
- Resource Connections: Navigating available resources can be challenging. Family Forward acts as a bridge, connecting families to essential resources such as books, toys, baby supplies (when available), employment opportunities, housing assistance, educational advancement, transportation for medical and school appointments, and other critical support systems.
- Dedicated Support System: Every family is paired with a dedicated case manager who provides consistent support through regular meetings, community workshops, fatherhood programs, and enriching family activities.
Smiling mother holding her baby close, showcasing the loving support of Family Forward programs for young families in Chattanooga
Who Can Benefit from Family Forward?
Our services are available to parents who are currently pregnant or anyone who is actively raising a child who is younger than five years old. We are committed to supporting families during these crucial early years of development.
Are There Exceptions to Eligibility?
While our primary focus is on families within specific criteria, we understand that unique circumstances exist. Exceptions to our standard eligibility may be considered for families facing particularly challenging situations. These situations include families experiencing homelessness, survivors of interpersonal violence, teen parents, and families with a child in the home with a disability. It is important to note that to be eligible for direct services, families must reside within the city limits of Chattanooga.
What If I Don’t Meet the Qualifications?
Even if you don’t meet the standard eligibility criteria for Family Forward, we still encourage you to reach out to us. Our commitment extends to connecting all families with helpful resources. We are dedicated to guiding you to other services and organizations that may be beneficial to your family’s needs, ensuring you receive the support you deserve, even if it’s not directly through our program.
Accessing Family Forward Services
How Can I Make a Referral to Family Forward?
We welcome referrals from various sources – whether you are a parent seeking support for yourself or a professional working with a family who could benefit from our services. With the caregiver’s permission, referrals can be easily made. You can contact Signal Centers directly at (423) 698-8528 to initiate a referral. Alternatively, you can utilize our referral form, available in both English and Spanish, for added convenience. Completed referral forms can be submitted via email to [email protected], faxed to (423) 624-1365 (Attention: Family Forward), or submitted directly through our website on the referral tab.
Is There a Waiting List for Services?
Currently, Family Forward is pleased to share that we do not have a waiting list for our services. However, we encourage interested families to contact us as soon as possible to begin the enrollment process and access the support they need without delay.
Are Spanish Language Services Available?
Yes! Family Forward is committed to serving the diverse community of Chattanooga. We have a dedicated team of four bilingual case managers and a bilingual Family Forward van driver to ensure we can effectively communicate with and support Spanish-speaking families. Language should not be a barrier to accessing the resources and support families need.
