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Dear Editor:
I'd like to introduce a little known gem available to the citizens of Iowa County: The Family Resource Center (FRC) of Iowa County. This small, not for profit organization has big things to offer. With the mission of empowering families by providing innovative programs and resources that capitalize on strengths, support growth and promote healthy families, the FRC offers a Parent Partner for families with children newborn to five years old. She is able to assess children's developmental milestones using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire and offer parenting guidance to new parents. She has also been certified to provide assistance with car seats to parents with kids from newborn to 12 years old. The FRC has funds allocated to providing new car seats to families who can't afford them. The FRC also partners with Plymouth Church to provide the Wacky Wednesday afterschool program to grade school aged children who would be going home to an empty home on early release days. The FRC is funded by the Iowa County Department of Social Services, the Kiwanis Club, and other grants. The FRC works closely with the County Health Department staff from which many referrals come.
This year, the FRC is honoring Tom Slaney, Director of the Iowa County Department of Social Services with their Friendship Award for his agency's assistance making sure children and families in Iowa County have such valuable resource. Congratulations to Tom and all associated with the Family Resource Center of Iowa County. Iowa County residents should be aware of this agency and grateful that such a jewel exists in our community.
Jane Batha
Mineral Point