By Anii Nwizu
With the support of Lady Fern Creek Fund our Parenting Program was able to support newly arrived refugee and immigrant families over the summer as they settle into Portland. The program creates spaces where parents feel empowered, and their children can thrive.
For refugee families, building a life in a new country can feel overwhelming. Simple things, like signing a child up for school or visiting the doctor, become complex when navigating language and cultural differences.
Our Parenting Program is here to make those moments easier, offering resources and a strong sense of community.
By providing families resources that are culturally responsive and opportunities to engage in safe places, we hope to ease their transition into being our neighbors.
“I couldn’t be more pleased with our experience at Neighborhood House!” shared one parent. “The team was fantastic from start to finish, and the resources and guidance they provided have been life-changing. Learning practical ways to bond with my children, build a structured routine, and find balance in our daily lives has been such a gift.”
”It was a pleasure to learn in such a positive and supportive atmosphere,” one parent said. Thank you to the trainer who spoke our language and knew our culture.”
The Parenting Program staff hosted an array of family events over the summer, mixing learning with summer fun.
Families explored the wonders of science at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) and experienced the beauty of Ecola State Park.
For Ukrainian families new to the area, special outings offered both adventure and a chance to meet others on a similar journey. The joy of blueberry picking, group picnics, and sharing laughter outdoors helped families build new connections. These encounters can foster lifelong relationships that are crucial to thriving in a new environment.
Throughout the summer, Parent Cafés addressed serious concerns, like substance use—a particularly sensitive topic among many Somali parents.
Through private home visits and virtual sessions, we offered a safe space where parents could openly discuss important issues like developmental milestones and school challenges. That can help dispell stigmas felt within cultural communities. Having a community to share experiences helps parents tackle the stress of parenting, knowing others are facing similar issues.
”It was a pleasure to learn in such a positive and supportive atmosphere,” another parent said. Thank you to the trainer who spoke our language and knew our culture.”
We are beyond grateful to the Lady Fern Creek Fund’s ongoing dedication to helping our new neighbors settle into Portland with confidence, community, and joy. They are an important ally in bringing support, inclusion, and understanding to our newest Portland neighbors.
“The resources and guidance provided have been life-changing. Learning practical ways to bond with my children, build a structured routine, and find balance in our daily lives has been such a gift.”
parent in the summer parenting program
