For Immediate Release
Contact: Heather Masterton
Chief Strategic Engagement Officer
YWCA Glendale and Pasadena
P 585.687.8319 | heathermasterton@ywcagp.org

YWCA Glendale & Pasadena Launches The Glendale Strong Families Network

City of Glendale Funded Project Will Support Families With School-Aged Children Impacted by COVID-19 to Build New Skills and Networks of Support

Glendale, CA, Sept. 7, 2021 – To meet the needs of Glendale families impacted by COVID-19, YWCA Glendale and Pasadena will be launching the Glendale Strong Families Network on September 22nd, offering its first 14-week virtual session for parents of school-aged children (5-12). The Network’s program will utilize the Strengthening Families Program curriculum, a science-based family skills training program designed to increase resilience and reduce risk factors for behavioral, emotional, academic, and social problems.

COVID-19 had a devastating impact on countless families in our community, impacts that continue to shape their lives as we begin to reopen. Economic stressors, virtual learning gaps, lack of socialization opportunities, and domestic violence reached unprecedented levels in Glendale. Families remained isolated from their traditional networks of support and largely unaware of the essential services available in the community for the past year. YWCA is honored to launch this new program with support from the City of Glendale’s Community Development Block Grant – Cares Act CV3.

Using the Strengthening FamiliesTM research-informed approach to increase family strengths, enhance child development and reduce the likelihood of child abuse and neglect, the program will support families through interactive educational workshops and direct linkages to resources. Participants will meet over zoom to build a community of parenting support and will have access to YWCA’s range of community resources: case management, advocacy, counseling, and food and clothing donations. Sessions will be held every Wednesday from 5:30-7 PM. To register, please contact Shirley Issakhan at 818-242-4155 ext. 201 or via email at shirleyissakhan@ywcagp.org.

YWCA Glendale and Pasadena’s mission is to eliminate racism, empower women and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. Their three program pillars are shaped around ending gender-based violence, empowering girls, and advancing racial justice through their residential and community-based programming and policy advocacy work. For more information, please visit: www.ywcagp.org.

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