Child Welfare
Strong Fatherhood Network
When fathers are actively engaged in their children’s lives, families thrive. The Foundling’s Strong Fatherhood Network takes a holistic approach to promote positive bonds, providing fathers with the resources and support to build stronger relationships with their children, family, and community.
The program operates in the Bronx and Staten Island, and provides a variety of pathways to target the specific needs of fathers at varying levels of involvement – whether they are entirely disconnected from their children, have visitation rights, or are actively parenting. Participants engage in a personalized journey featuring a combination of parenting skills training to best support their children, one-on-one coaching and case management to help address issues and build stability, peer support groups to assist in achieving personal goals, and community and family events to promote engagement. Fathers leave the program with a renewed sense of focus, purpose, and connection, and the tools to sustain ongoing involvement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for The Foundling’s Strong Fatherhood Network?
Men who are fathers or serve as father figures, reside in the Bronx or Staten Island, and are over the age of 14 are eligible for the program.
Where is The Foundling’s Strong Fatherhood Network located?
Services are conducted at The Foundling’s offices in the Bronx (501 Southern Boulevard) or Staten Island (1 Edgewater Plaza), as well as offered virtually.
What is the application process, and how long does it take to start services?
To enroll in services, fathers should complete the online form here. The Foundling team will review, and if the applicant is eligible, will respond within 2 business days to request documentation (proof of address, proof of income, and pre-knowledge survey) and schedule an in-person intake session. From there, services will begin.
How can the program assist fathers without visitation or who are involved in the family court system?
The program provides a judgement-free space for self-reflection, personal growth, and learning coping skills, all while helping fathers navigate the court system. Staff provide case management and connect with courts and attorneys, assisting fathers in the court process each step of the way. They will also help through referrals to necessary programs, provide connections to legal consultations, and provide ongoing parenting support once visitation or custody is regained.
How can the program assist fathers that have complicated relationships with their children?
Our peer support groups provide a safe space for fathers to gain support and guidance from other fathers. Additionally, we can help fathers learn different parenting techniques and coping methods, and help them repair the relationships they have with their children. The program provides relevant parenting skills training, and our coaches work with fathers one-on-one to bolster parenting and communication skills, provide psychoeducation, teach coping methods, and deliver encouragement and support as he navigates the situation. Additionally, if a father needs additional supports (such as individual therapy) our staff can help by providing in-house treatment or referrals.
How can the program assist fathers that have difficulties with their co-parent?
The program can help fathers self-reflect and analyze the root causes of friction, and deliver guidance and techniques to resolve or manage conflicts with their co-parent. If the co-parent is open to attending the program, they may participate in our parenting training and coaching as well – providing them with the skills and support to improve the relationship together.
How can the program assist fathers that are actively parenting and engaged?
The program is designed to meet each father where they are. Our trainings can help each father learn new parenting methods, learn what aspects to amplify, and note what to avoid. Successful fathers can give back by providing their insights to others in our peer groups, serving as a mentor and role model. For everyone, the program offers opportunities for professional development, family-friendly events and opportunities, and the chance to connect with other fathers and build community.
How long can participants receive services once enrolled?
The full program (completion of parenting training curriculum, two peer support group sessions, three workshops, and one community project) is expected to be completed within 6 months. However, there is no hard deadline. Fathers that take more time to progress through the program, or have their training interrupted by life circumstances, may remain enrolled and finish at their own pace. Fathers that complete all requirements can continue to attend and engage as an alumni.
Is there a cost? Are there monetary incentives for participating?
This program is absolutely free of charge for eligible participants. Additionally, there are gift card incentives, based on milestones reached in the program (such as attending orientation, participating in a community event, etc.) Fathers can earn up to $200 through the course of the program.
How does the Strong Fatherhood Network offer lasting benefits to fathers?
By taking a holistic approach to fatherhood, the program provides participants with support in all areas of their lives to help them build stability and strength. They leave the program with a renewed sense of focus, purpose, and connection, and the tools to sustain ongoing involvement with their children.
How can I share the Strong Fatherhood Network with my networks and community?
Feel free to download and share the program flyer, send interested people to the program page here, and encourage them to enroll here.
