Local Support

Area Resources for Caregivers

FCC of Sharon Food Pantry - local food assistance
Parent to Parent of Massachusetts - this is a program that supports parents, grandparents and guardians living in Massachusetts and caring for children of all ages who have disabilities and/or medical complexities by connecting them with parents in similar situations.
Safe Community Diaper Bank (Franklin, MA) - request diapers
SAFE Support Groups - support groups for families including those for postpartum mothers and grandparents raising grandchildren
Self Help Inc - provides local families with free and educational activities, programs, information, and resources.
Sharon Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SSEPAC)- All volunteer group of parents whose mission is to promote the understanding, respect, acceptance, and inclusion of children with special needs, medical needs and (dis)abilities within our school system and community.

Online Support Resources

Helpful links for support in taking care of children and discussing tough topics

Health Resources

CDC's Children's Health Resources - health information and resources for caregivers
MA Bureau of Family Health and Nutrition - provides programs and services ensuring the health of the Commonwealth’s mothers, infants, children and youth — including children and youth with special health needs and their families
Mass.gov Resource List - Resources for caregivers of children under 5
Healthy Children - a collection of resources created by the American Academy of Pediatrics
Planned Parenthood for Parents - from preschool through high school, this page provides suggestions for how to talk to children about health and safety

Infant and New Parent Resources:

Healthy Families MA - a free and voluntary support program for first-time parents age 23 and under
Free Formula Exchange - national nonprofit that works to provide families with formula
Postpartum Support International - resources for those with perinatal mental health conditions

Internet Safety Resources

Connect Safely - internet safety resources including parent guides to popular apps and websites
NetSmatz - resources for families on internet safety from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children
Safe Online Surfing - game based internet safety training for grades 3-8 created by the FBI

LGBTQAI+ Resources

GenderCool Project - an informational guide about gender expression created by trans and nonbinary youth and families
Gender Spectrum - national organization that provides education and support for families with transgender and gender diverse children and youth
JQ Helpline - a support line for LGBTQ+ Jews and their families

Mental Health Resources

Handhold- a curated a collection of resources and organizations to help caregivers navigate children's mental health
Parent Stress Line 1-800-632-8188 a safe place for parents and caregivers to talk about the challenges of raising children and receive kindness, understanding, and the non-judgmental support needed to help prevent a situation from escalating into a crisis. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone
MA Behavioral Help Hotline - Call or Text 833-773-2445 or chat online

Need help finding specific resources in the area? We are happy to help. Stop by the children's room, give us a call at 781-784-1578 x1434, or email rsavage@sharon.ocln.org