Child and Family Services has been helping New Bedford-area children and families for 182 years. What started as an orphanage and adoption agency in 1843 has now become a resource offering mental health services, initiatives to strengthen families, community outreach, and an adoption program.
CFS now has 12 locations around the state, including two in New Bedford and two in Fall River.
Child and Family Services is now asking for your help in setting up a fund to assist people in need, not just around the holidays, but year-round.
Donna Criscuolo, CFS’s Vice President of Marketing and Development, stopped by Townsquare Sunday to talk about the new fundraising initiative, as well as the annual CFS Gala coming up on December 4 at 6 p.m. at Century House in Acushnet.
“The theme is ‘365 Days of Hope: The Light Within,’” Criscuolo said. “The goal is to raise money so our clinicians can provide immediate, basic-needs support for clients, year-round.”
Introducing the New Fund
Criscuolo explained the idea was borne out of CFS’s successful Holiday Hope project, where sponsors line up to help those clients in need during the holiday season.
“Unfortunately for many families, that need is now 365 days a year,” she said. “We have 30 more families needing help this year, compared to 2024.”
Ticket Information for the CFS Gala
Tickets are still available for the gala on the Child and Family Services website. Donations are also welcome.
CFS Programs That Help the SouthCoast
The website also contains descriptions and information about the many programs Child and Family Services offers, including Project Aspire for students in all three New Bedford middle schools, showing them positive ways to boost themselves and their school. Also, the Young Parents Support Program offers help and information to young parents under 23 years old.
“We really have evolved into a mental health agency,” Criscuolo said. “Even if you are struggling day to day and need a therapist, you can walk right into our clinics at Church Street, New Bedford or Osborne Street in Fall River and see a licensed counselor today.”
If you would like your organization featured on Townsquare Sunday, please email the host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.
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