November 16, 2020 — A new initiative by Midland ISD's Student Services Department aims to serve the needs of our District's most at-risk families. The new Family Support Center will assist families by connecting them with a full spectrum of support.
"This will be a one-stop shop for families needing assistance," said Student Services Director Jill McCall. "We won't need to point them to a variety of different agencies; we'll be able to give families all the resources they need in one place."
The Family Support Center is collaborating with non-profit agencies throughout the city to provide things like food, clothing (including school uniforms), legal assistance, a variety of counseling services, and other resources.
"We saw the need to bring all of these resources together. Families experiencing crisis already have enough on their plates without going to multiple different agencies. Let's provide what they need right here," said McCall, who pitched the plan after recognizing the needs many families face.
Welcome packs for new families can even include essentials like soap and shampoo, toothpaste, towels, pots and pans, socks and underwear.
"If a family is experiencing these types of problems (lack of basic needs), there's no way the student is learning," said Family Support Specialist Chalace Phillips. "Providing these services to the family helps create an environment where the kids can be successful in school."
The Family Support Center has already provided assistance to more than 50 families. Student Services is currently in the process of preparing a hospitality area at Central Office that will welcome families seeking assistance.
"Our families are high-stress when they arrive, so we want to make them as comfortable as possible," McCall said. "Thanks to the generosity of the Warren Charitable Foundation, United Way and others, we're creating an area for children with books, puzzles, games, and space for art work. We are so thankful for the support the community has shown us."
Students or parents wishing to contact the Family Support Center may do so by calling Student Services at 432-240-1520. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, in-person meetings are currently available by appointment only.
The Family Support Center will hold its grand opening later in the year. Please look for a future release with additional details.
