Bob Arnold

Programs Serving the Most Vulnerable Face an Uncertain Future

It’s no secret these are the most challenging times we’ve seen in recent memory.  Everywhere we turn around, it seems we’re reminded of the collapsing job market, the unstable financial sector and rising home foreclosure statistics.  And as the statewide deficit continues to widen, many community programs serving vulnerable children, adults and families face a very uncertain future. 

One such program that may be subject to massive funding cuts is the School Based Health Centers, which serve nearly 900 kids attending Stamford’s middle and high schools.  As many as 90,000 children in Connecticut are uninsured, and the School Based Health Centers act as many area kids’ only gateway to much-needed primary health care and counseling services.   

Take Elena for example.  She first came to the School Based Health Center shortly after her mother was diagnosed with cancer.  Weakened by chemotherapy, Elena’s mother relied on her to handle the majority of the household chores.  As a result, Elena’s grades plummeted and she became isolated from her friends.  And while her worry about her mother was constant, she grew increasingly angry with her father, who was drinking to cope with his wife’s illness.  On top of all this, Elena had numerous health issues that went unaddressed due to her family’s lack of insurance.

After working with the staff social worker for a few weeks, Elena found the School Based Health Center to be a safe place where she can talk openly about her frustrations and fears.  The Center’s nurse practioner also took care of all her medical needs at no cost.  Even though she still does get stressed about her home life from time to time, Elena is now in a much better place due to the care and guidance she received at the School Based Health Center.  Her grades and social situation improved dramatically, and she’s looking forward to beginning her senior year of high school.

You can help more kids like Elena by supporting the United Way’s “Take Five to Give Five” campaign.  Your generosity goes a long way in providing some added stability to families who need it the most.

Bob Arnold
President
Family Centers 

Learn more about Take Five to Give 5 at:
http://www.TakeFivetoGive5.org

Comments

[Kim Morgan]

There are thousands of children in our communities that rely on caring staff and programs like those at the school based health centers. These social service providers are on the front lines helping families who are hurting. We need to do everything we can to ensure these programs continue to be available for those who need them, when they need them.