The Family Resource & Development Center (FRDC) is part of a growing network of 28 Family Resource Centers across the state of Massachusetts. The FRDC supports caregivers with children from birth to 18 with services and resources that promote self- sufficiency, strengthen family bonds, and tighten children’s connections with their community.
Open Monday to Friday, the FRDC offers a safe space where caregivers can meet with Family Support Workers, access a vast library of local resources, and utilize computers for home and job searches. The goal of the FRDC is to provide opportunities for parents and their children to thrive and succeed. The staff is fluent in Spanish, Portuguese, and Cape Verdean Creole to ensure there are no barriers to the basic needs.
The FRDC is funded by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services and the Department of Children and Families.
Programs & Groups
The FRDC also offer parent education programs, support groups and workshops for parents and caregivers:
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group -2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month from 5:30-7:30 PM
For a grandparent raising a grandchild, join us to connect with other grandparents. Dinner and limited childcare provided. Learn more
Job Readiness - By appointment only
Make an appointment to get help with resume building, cover letter writing, interviewing, job searches and more! Learn more
Nurturing Fathers Program - Wednesdays 5:30 - 8 pm
A 14-week journey to support and teach men to be good fathers. The group is offered at least two times per year. Learn more
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Nurturing Fathers Support Group - Mondays 5:30 - 6:30 pm
A support group for fathers who have graduated from the Nurturing Fathers Program. Mondays 5:00-6:00 pm. Learn more
Parent Support Group - 2nd & 4th Tuesday of the Month
An ongoing drop-in group for any caregiver of children that is looking for support in their day-to-day parenting of their children, grandchildren, etc. Learn More
Parenting Journey. - Thursdays 5:30 - 7:30 pm
This group is designed for parents and caregivers to gather and learn through a combination of hands-on activities and guided discussion, knowledge and skills that support you as a parent/caregiver and role model.
Pipeline (Partnership In Parenting Exchange/ Learn, Interact, Network, Empower) Workshop - Third Tuesday of every month from August to May, 5:30-7:30 pm.
A monthly workshop for any caregiver of a school age child that provides support on how to further their child’s academic success. Topics can range from how to get organized for school, to learning about Individual Educational Plans, to learning about school options in New Bedford. For more information, call 508-994-4521.
Youth R.I.S.E. - 1st & 3rd Monday of the Month
A youth-driven space where young adults can socialize with their peers and empower themselves and others. For teens 13-18 years old. Learn more
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Hours of Operation
Monday 8:30 am - 6:30 pm
Tuesday 8:30 am - 7 pm
Wednesday 8:30 am - 7 pm
Thursday 8:30 am - 5 pm (extended hours 5 - 7:30 pm beginning 6/22/23)
Friday 8:30 am - 5 pm
The FRDC is open the 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month from 10 am -12 pm
The Family Resource & Development Center is located on the 3rd floor of the DeMello International Center.
Make a Referral
Organizations and agencies looking to make a referral to the FRDC, click here.
Contact
The Family Resource & Development Center can be reached at 508-994-4521.