Families Helping Families is a coordinated network of ten non-profit resource centers located throughout the state of Louisiana that provide information and referrals, family peer support, education services and resources for all people with disabilities and their families. It is a place families can go  that is directed and staffed by parents or family members of individuals with disabilities.   It also serves as a resource for professionals.

     In the early 1990s, the Louisiana Developmental Disabilities Council (DD Council) sponsored a conference that focused on community supports and services for people with disabilities. The conference was attended by many parents who wanted their children with disabilities to be fully included in all areas of their home communities. During the close of the conference, one parent asked if the chart listing the participant’s ideas could serve some purpose other than covering the walls. The DD Council took the challenge and gathered information to write legislation that resulted in Act 378 of 1989, known as the Community and Family Support Act.

     Since its inception, Families Helping Families has helped thousands of families receive help in connecting to services and understand their rights and responsibilities. It has also given families the opportunity to talk to someone who has been in their shoes. The DD Council has supported the centers throughout the years and continues to be one of their main supporters with funds and technical assistance. Families Helping Families now has contracts with many entities such as Children’s Special Health Services, Louisiana Department of Education, Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities, Office of Mental Health, Louisiana Children’s Trust Fund, F2HIC, Early Childhood Supports & Services and EarlySteps.
     Every center builds its program based on the needs in its own region. However, the common thread among all centers is dedication to all people with disabilities and their families.   

FHF Centers

• Region One - Families Helping Families of Southeast Louisiana, Inc.
• Region Two - Families Helping Families of Greater Baton Rouge, Inc.
• Region Three - Bayou Land Families Helping Families, Inc.
• Region Four - Families Helping Families of Acadiana, Inc.
• Region Five - Families Helping Families of Southwest Louisiana, Inc.
• Region Six - Families Helping Families at the Crossroads, Inc.
• Region Seven - Families Helping Families of Region 7
• Region Eight - Families Helping Families of Northeast Louisiana, Inc.
• Region Nine - Northshore Families Helping Families, Inc.
• Region Ten - Families Helping Families of Jefferson, Inc. 

Today is
February 6, 2012