SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – New parents were able to learn about affordable services and resources at a health and safety fair in Springfield Tuesday night.
The “Ride the Wellness Wave” resource fair, hosted by the HCS Head Start Health Team, was part of an annual effort focused on recognizing early childhood programs and services that meet the needs of younger children and families. Six local community organizations were in attendance this evening to provide information and resources to families. According to the CDC, about half of her children under the age of 3 who need services are not receiving them.
“It's important for children to know what's available to them. We want to educate parents about not only what Head Start does, but what all the dedicated people in the city of Springfield represent. We want people to always know what we’re doing,” said Terry Lombardo, Head Start’s Family and Community Engagement Coordinator.
“The sooner a child receives services, the better the outcome for the child. You know that children's brains are very plastic, and we want to give them as much attention as possible as soon as possible. We want people to learn about it,” added occupational therapist and CDC ambassador Kate Barlow.
She added that it is essential for parents to know their child's milestones and monitor any developmental delays. In Massachusetts, all early intervention services from birth until the age of three are provided free to families.
Kayleigh Thomas is a digital reporter who will be part of the 22News team starting in 2022. Follow Kayleigh on X @kayleighctomas Check out her bio to see more of her work.
