PACT Offers More than Parenting Skills

Through an inter-agency referral, 18 year old Eliza was connected with FCA's Parents and Children Together (PACT) program in Hempstead, NY. She has two children and was seeking access to parenting skills workshops, and assistance with her pending immigration case. Eliza has an undocumented three year old child who has Epilepsy. The diagnosis has significantly impacted her family and cultural beliefs of the use of medication by her father. Eliza decided to live independently with her boyfriend and children to effectively raise and apply her own parenting style and to avoid conflict with her father. She dropped out of school and is not be able to qualify for childcare subsidy due to child’s immigration status. Eliza continues to coordinate services with neurologists, medical professionals, and PACT program’s case manager.  Her mother monitors and administers medication to reduce child’s seizure episodes. Eliza’s child is not eligible to receive Early Intervention for her speech delay due to her child’s age. After being referred to the BOCES Parent-Child Home Program and being involved with FCA, Eliza was now feeling much more supported. Eliza's child will now receive early literacy services twice a week and after several attempts, Eliza was able to successfully enroll her child into the Uniondale School District. Eliza has an upcoming CSE meeting for her child to receive special education services and FCA will be supporting and advocating for her throughout the process. Eliza continues to actively participate in parent support and skills workshops and she is committed to continue to improving her parenting skills.

At FCA we respect all who come to us for help – and many are working toward a fresh start in life. So while their stories are true, client names and images may have been changed to protect their privacy. We thank you for understanding.