Family Education Programs
To receive in-home parenting support and related services, you must have an open case with the Dutchess County Department of Community and Family Services (DCFS) or the Orange County Department of Social Services (DSS) Children and Family Unit. All referrals come directly from DCFS or DSS.
The Parenting Journey Support Group at our Orange County location is free and open to the public.
You Have the Right to Growth and Opportunity
Children don’t come with instructions, which is why our educators are here to offer guidance and help you create a safe, healthy environment for your child. Our goal is to improve your family’s chance of staying together, and we will guide you through creating and achieving your own goals.
What to Expect
In-Home Support
Together, we will work to identify your goals and build upon each family member’s strengths to improve communication and cooperation. We provide hands-on coaching and listen to your needs, guiding your family in strengthening age-appropriate expectations, empathy, and a child’s power and independence. You must be referred by Orange County DSS or Dutchess County DCFS to enroll in parenting education.
Resources & Referrals
We understand that families have additional needs that affect the home. Our team is here to connect you with the resources you need and guide you through interactions with other programs for transportation, family goods, childcare assistance, WIC, Medicaid, literacy programs, counseling, and other resources.
Support Groups
Our Orange County location offers Parenting Journey, a support group where you can reflect alongside other parents on how your childhood experiences shape your choices as a parent today. This weekly two-hour group runs for 12 weeks and is open to the public! We provide dinner each week and will assist you with childcare and transportation, if needed.
Parental Wellbeing
Family Education Program staff will work closely with you to support your family’s overall wellbeing, ensuring you have the items you need to provide a safe and nurturing environment for your children. In our Dutchess County program, staff provide transportation to appointments, case management services, and coordination with other providers. In Orange County, we provide optional family therapy, which can continue even after you’ve completed the in-home parenting support.
Office Hours & Locations
Dutchess County
29 North Hamilton Street, Suite L-16
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
Office Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
We will work with your family to identify the best days and times for in-home support.
Orange County
110 East Main Street
Middletown, NY 10940
Office Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
We will work with your family to identify the best days and times for in-home support.
Funding Acknowledgment
This program is funded in part by the Orange County Department of Social Services and the Dutchess County Department of Community and Family Services.
