The Times Record: What is the mission of Healthy Kids?
Healthy Kids: Our mission is to prevent child abuse and neglect in Lincoln County, and to encourage, support and promote healthy family environments.
TR: How do you fulfill that mission?
HK: We provide parenting and family resources, home visiting and classes in jails and high school health classes.
These programs teach child development, temperament, safety, communication and discipline. We hold support programs to keep parents connected and provide classes on how to respond to child abuse and shaken baby syndrome. We also have an online resource center and a Parent Talk TV series on cable that features local parents.
TR: What are the biggest challenges your organization faces?
HK: Our biggest challenge is funding — we do not have state or federal contracts. We are a United Way agency and fundraise the rest.
TR: What is something people do not know about Healthy Kids?
HK: We are in jails and high schools, discussing parenting and preventative issues by teaching people how to deal with a crying baby, or how drugs and alcohol can impact a fetus.
TR: How can people best support your mission?
HK: Come to our events — our Strawberry Shortcake Shuffle 5K is in July and our Chocolate Fest is in February, send donations or join our board.
dkim@timesrecord.com
Contact information
ORGANIZATION: Healthy Kids
FOUNDED: 1985
ADDRESS: P.O. Box 689, Damariscotta, ME 04543
PHONE NUMBER: 207-563-1818
WEBSITE: www.healthykidsmaine.com
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