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The Monument Community First 5 Center


 

Program Spotlight: Forum Addresses Effects of Immigration Raids on Children

Nearly 100 parents attended a forum last month to discuss the effects of immigration raids on young children and to strategize ways to help families cope.  The forum was coordinated by the Monument Community First 5 Center in partnership with the parenting radio program Nuestros Niños, Telemundo, and the American Psychological Association (APA).

“Many families served by the agency have been personally affected; resulting in their children feeling less secure, routines being interrupted, and in many instances, parents becoming more isolated and afraid to leave their homes,” said Ruth Rodriguez, the director of the Monument Community First 5 Center. “When a young child experiences a sudden and traumatic separation from a parent, it can be devastating, and the effects of such a separation on the family can hinder a child’s healthy development.”

The first half of the event included a taping of Nuestros Niños, hosted by Dr. Marisol Muñoz-Kiehne, which aired October 4.  Guests included Ruth Rodriguez, four local families who have been affected by the raids, local psychologist Alejandrina Estrada, Ph.D., and immigration attorney Maria Rivera. Julia Silva, director of APA’s national early violence prevention initiative, provided information on ways families can cope and how local organizations such as the First 5 Center can assist them.

The radio program was followed by a panel discussion with Ruth Rodriguez, Catholic Charities immigration specialist Carla Median, mental health specialist Gail Gordon, and parent leader Elva Cruz.  The panelists took questions from participants, including from one man whose wife had been deported the previous week, leaving him to raise their three daughters.  After telling his story, 20 fathers in attendance stood up and volunteered to reach out and support this family.

The panelists discussed the importance of creating a plan to keep children safe in the event that deportation does occur.  Parents were encouraged to gather important information in one place, such as children’s health records, and to designate in writing who should care for their children.

“The First 5 Center is here to help and support the families in our community,” said Rodriguez.  “We want to encourage parents to focus on what they can do to prepare so that their children are as safe and secure as possible.”

The radio program aired last Sunday but is available for download at www.nuestrosninos.com.

To learn more about the Monument Community First 5 Center, please visit www.firstfivecc.org.

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Vision

Contra Costa's young children will be healthy, ready to learn, and supported in safe, nurturing families and communities.


Mission

The mission of First 5 Contra Costa is to foster the optimal development of our children, prenatal to five years of age.

In partnership with parents, caregivers, communities, public and private organizations, advocates, and county government, we support a comprehensive, integrated set of sustainable programs, services, and activities designed to:

  • Improve the health and well-being of our young children

  • Advance their potential to succeed in school

  • Strengthen the ability of their families and caregivers to provide for their physical, mental, and emotional growth


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