The Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands (CFVI) is offering a free mental health resource to all families throughout the territory with children from birth to 12th grade to boost their learning.
“We’re so excited to be partnering with ParentPowered to offer this research-based parenting curriculum to families anywhere in the USVI at no cost to them,” said CFVI President Dee Baecher-Brown.
“We realize educators are busy. Families are busy. Yet, strong relationships with families are critical to support healthy child development and academic success,” she said. “ParentPowered digital family engagement programs provide weekly support and resources to families.”
Each week, caregivers receive three short text messages. The messages provide easy ways to connect to children and support their learning. In addition, one or two messages per week are sent with information on community resources to support the caregivers and their families.
“Every message is aligned to your child’s age or grade,” said Baecher-Brown. “And each tip is built around everyday routines. No supplies needed, just the people, places and things around you.”
The ParentPowered service, originally launched by CFVI in the territory as Ready4K during the pandemic in March 2020, is currently available through Dec. 31, 2024.
“We encourage families to sign up right away to get the most out of the program,” said Baecher-Brown.
Getting started is easy. Simply text the code CFVI to 70138 to start receiving messages today. By entering your cell phone number, you agree to enroll in the program and receive ParentPowered text messages from 70138.
While there is no cost for enrolling, data and message rates may apply. People can cancel the text messages at any time by texting STOP to 70138. If there are any additional questions or a need for help with the program, then text HELP to 70138 or email the ParentPowered team at support@parentpowered.com.
“Our commitment to education remains steadfast, as does our desire to strengthen the resources available in the Virgin Islands,” said Baecher-Brown. “Through our support of initiatives such as USVI Center for the Book, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, Little Free Libraries, Campaign for Grade-Level Reading, and our annual scholarship program, we continue to do what we can so that all children and families in the territory are provided with the tools, support and opportunities that lead to healthy development.”
For schools and other community organizations interested in signing up their parents to use the platform, please contact CFVI’s Beth Nuttall, grants program director, at bethn@cfvi.net.
For more information about ParentPowered, visit www.parentpowered.com
