Children, Youth and Family Services

Where can a teenage mother turn when she needs to learn how to take care of her baby?

Charlene was just seventeen years old when her son was born. She was living in a small house with her older sister and several others, and she wanted desperately to be a good mom.

When her son was two months old, Charlene learned about Children, Youth & Family Services’ Home Visitor program. During weekly visits to Charlene’s home, her CYFS Home Visitor began to notice some unusual child-rearing practices employed by the young mother. Charlene said that these methods had been suggested by family and friends. Charlene wanted to provide the best care for her baby, but clearly did not know any better. On one visit, her Home Visitor saw that Charlene was trying to feed her infant son strawberries and grapes. Gently, she taught Charlene why this could be dangerous and showed her how to prepare age-appropriate foods for her baby.

Children, Youth & Family Services was there for Charlene and her son when they needed help because of the support of people like you. Visit their website at www.cyfs.org to learn how you can help.

Want to help others like Charlene? Designate your gift to CVC #3750.

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