Fathers across south-central Indiana will receive extra support from a new behavioral health program come July, according to a Centerstone press release.
Centerstone, a nonprofit behavioral healthcare organization that provides help for citizens across Indiana, has received a $9.7 million grant from the Administration for Children and Families to increase its services for fathers across six south-central Indiana Counties.
The program, which will begin July 1, will target biological fathers, stepfathers and expectant fathers to better strengthen their relationships with their children, according to the release. Young fathers, low-income fathers and those involved in the criminal justice system will be given special consideration.
“Research from places where fatherhood initiatives have been tried has shown important benefits for the child’s relationship with their father, and also a significant increase in child support payments,” Monroe County Prosecuting Attorney Chris Gaal said in the release.
Studies have shown proven links between a father’s involvement and a decrease in negative behaviors in children, according to the release, which leads to the conclusion that fatherhood engagement benefits all parties involved.
Children who aren’t actively associated with their father are twice as likely to drop out of school or abuse drugs and alcohol, are more likely to be imprisoned and three times more likely to live in poverty, the release states. The Centerstone program will aim to create healthier community environments.
Emphasis will be placed on helping fathers with life skills, family wellness education, employment coaching and being better partners, parents and providers.
“We have a passionate team of people with years of experience in these fields that have put months of hard work into creating the best program possible to help fathers and families grow and succeed,” Program Manager Richard Kosmala said in the release. “We are looking forward to putting that planning into practice and we appreciate the invaluable support of our community partners.”
Anicka Slachta
