Successes

Connecting Fathers to Resources Strengthens Families Across the Community

Anthony and Nellie have worked together to connect fathers with the resources and support they need to strengthen their relationships with their children and families. Through Anthony’s ongoing work with fathers, two participants were able to gain increased in-home access to their children. One father shared that he is now spending more meaningful time with his children by eating dinner together, reading books, and building daily routines that have strengthened their bond. Both fathers have remained actively engaged in the program and report increased nurturing behaviors and stronger connections with their children.

In addition to supporting fathers directly, Nellie has helped connect families with community resources that address their unique needs. She referred one father to the Health Department’s Parent Navigator Program after his child was diagnosed with autism, ensuring the family received specialized guidance and support. She has also connected multiple fathers to the Partnership for Children’s Diaper Drives, helping relieve financial stress by providing essential supplies for their young children. Together, Anthony and Nellie’s efforts demonstrate how connecting fathers to practical resources, community services, and parenting support can improve family well-being and foster stronger, healthier relationships.

Young Father Finds Stability Through Focus on Fathers Program

Focus on Fathers Coordinator Nellie Benitez shares a story about a young father enrolled this year:

“I enrolled a new father that was referred to me through a non-profit in Siler City. He is a young dad with a toddler and pregnant girlfriend. The father needed to know more about Chatham County since he just moved to Chatham. He was renting when I first started working with him and needed to find a new place to live. The father also needed a car seat for his toddler and for the baby they are expecting. The dad had recently had issues with court because his child was not in a car seat. I provided guidance for finding employment for the father, helped them receive free car seats that were correctly installed, provided car seat safety education, and helped the family find a new place to stay.

I signed up the father for the Focus on Fathers services and helped him with filling out all required forms. He filled out the AAPI questionnaire and helped me to understand his parenting needs. The father has started one-on-one parenting classes. I also provided him with a letter stating that he now has appropriate car seats. After I helped him with some employment applications, he was hired at a business in Siler City. He was eventually able to find an apartment in Siler City to rent and moved in with his family. This fall they welcomed their baby girl. The father continues to do one-on-one parenting sessions with me to become a better father for his children.”