Parenting Matters Blog

Director’s Corner

Helping Families Rebuild After Hurricanes Helene and Milton: A Message from Our Executive Director

Dear Friends,

Marise Vergara delivered groceries to families impacted by Hurricane Milton.

As we reflect on the challenges our community has faced after Hurricanes Helene and Milton, I want to personally share how Parenting Matters is stepping in to help the families we serve. When disasters strike, we all see the incredible outpouring of support from various organizations. However, we know from experience that even with this aid, some families still find themselves falling through the cracks.

Our Parenting Educators, who are trusted by the families they work with, are uniquely positioned to make a critical impact during these times. They don’t just deliver parenting advice—they are advocates and connectors who can help families navigate the overwhelming number of resources available in the aftermath of a crisis. Whether it’s guiding parents to emergency housing, childcare options, or food distribution sites, they are there every step of the way.

But our role doesn’t stop at connecting families with outside help. Parenting Matters is also prepared to step in where other resources fall short. Many families face stopgap needs that don’t fit into traditional aid categories. We are committed to providing direct support for those needs, whether that’s ensuring a family has essential baby supplies, replacing damaged school materials for children, or offering mental health support during what can be a very stressful time.

Supporting Children Through Environmental Trauma

Natural disasters can have a noticeable impact on children, both physically and emotionally. Beyond the immediate disruptions to their daily lives, they may

Marise Vergara delivered groceries to families impacted by Hurricane Milton.

experience increased anxiety, stress, and uncertainty about the future. These effects can take time to resolve, but we know that with the right support, children are incredibly resilient.

Our goal is to help children recover by ensuring that families have what they need to rebuild and providing stability for children who have experienced disruptions to their education and home life. By re-establishing routines and supporting caregivers, we help create an environment where they can regain a sense of safety and well-being.

At Parenting Matters, our Parenting Educators are at the heart of this work. They know that rebuilding isn’t just about repairing physical damage—it’s about supporting families holistically, helping them process what they’ve been through, and giving them the tools to move forward with hope.

This kind of assistance is only possible because of you—our supporters. Your generosity ensures that we can respond quickly and effectively, providing a lifeline to families when they need it most. As we move forward in helping families recover and rebuild, I want to thank you for continuing to stand with Parenting Matters.

Together, we are making a difference, not just in the immediate recovery but in helping families regain stability for the long term.

Warmly,
Katie Becker
Executive Director, Parenting Matters