In the month of April each year, New Destiny FSC commemorates Family Strengthening Month in a special way!! This year, the agency organized a “Family Strengthening Month Healing Fair”, where families came together and enjoyed a day of healing and fun. Why did we choose the theme of “healing”? Having lived through the pandemic these past two years, many families were negatively impacted financially, mentally, and spiritually. We decided we wanted to bring a celebration of joy while also encouraging families with a rich array of community resources. A total of 151 adults and 165 children enjoyed free food, ice cream, popcorn, games, music, and so much more!! When the idea was presented to our community partners, they immediately jumped on board bringing resources and free gifts for our children and families. Boxes of food were given to families in need by one of our partners. Vendors were available with a diverse mix of community resources and information including a mobile vaccine unit on site for anyone interested in getting vaccinated. Some of the feedback we received from the volunteers, families and interns that assisted at the event were, “It was so good to see children smiling, families bonding, and the passion with which all staff, volunteers and vendors served the community;” “One of my favorite events,” “It was an event well done, organized, all families had an activity to do, it was perfect.” One of our community partners stated that he not been in an event like this before.” As part of our “strengthening families” event, some of the protective factors addressed included: social connections, concrete support in times of need (as evidenced by our collaborators who attended), social and emotional competence of children. Vendors provided tools for parenting and child development. Activities such as Zumba, and the bouncy house for the children allowed them to release stress and have fun. Overall, our goal was and is that families leave these types of events with a sense of hope knowing that there is support in their community even when challenging times arise. We want them to know that NDFSC and its partners will be there to strengthen and support them.
