A Chapter of Families Together in New York State, Inc.
Member of the Children's Mental Health Coalition of Western New York, Inc.
History and Overview
Finger Lakes Parent Network Brochure
Finger Lakes Parent Network Inc. offers family support services in the nine counties of Wayne, Ontario, Seneca, Yates, Schuyler, Steuben, Chemung, Tioga and Allegany. Collaboration between families and service providers is integral to the program. The program began in July 1990 as the Finger Lakes Family Support Project with a grant from the NYS Office of Mental Health and was sponsored by the Steuben County Department of Community Services with the support of Pathways Inc. and the Steuben Church People Against Poverty (SCAP). The project was directed by a professional staff member of Elmira Psychiatric Center (EPC). Caregiver support groups were facilitated by a Family Consultant and EPC support staff; they also offered on-site childcare opportunities in Ontario, Wayne, Steuben and Chemung.
The Finger Lakes Parent Network received its corporate seal in November 1994. A Board of Directors was established in April 1995 and in December 1995 FLPN, Inc. received official notification of not for profit status.
Today the Finger Lakes Parent Network Inc. is an independent family support organization run by and for families. Services have developed to include: advocacy, information and referral, parent education, teen programs, family recreation and respite/skill building.
Over half of the FLPN, Inc. Board of Directors is comprised of family members. Family support services reduce stress and help families to care for children with emotional, behavioral, mental and/or developmental disabilities at home and/or in their communities. Any family residing in any of the nine counties is eligible for services at no cost. A diagnosis is not required.