Youth Advocate Program of Atlantic County Receives $190,000 to Support Healthy Father/Child Relationships

TRENTON - New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF) Commissioner Allison Blake today announced the award of grant funds to the Youth Advocate Program of Atlantic County to help fathers get more involved in their children's lives.

The program seeks to promote healthy relationships, education, and employment for expectant and parenting young fathers between 16 and 21 and fathers of adolescents.

"Studies show children who enjoy deeper relationships with their fathers have better educational outcomes, verbal skills, intellectual functioning, emotional security, and social behavior," said Commissioner Blake.  "Fathers clearly have a very influential and valuable role in raising children.  That's why our department emphasizes father engagement and equipping fathers with important parenting skills and education."

The $190,000 in grant funding is made available through the Pregnancy Assistance Fund Program: Support for Pregnant and Parenting Teens and Women award to DCF by the US Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Adolescent Health.

DCF is dedicated to ensuring a better today and an even greater tomorrow for every individual the department serves.  In partnership with New Jersey's communities, DCF ensures the safety, well-being, and success of New Jersey's children and families.  DCF funds and directly provides services and support to over 100,000 women, children, and families each month.