Down Syndrome Association
4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite A
Cincinnati, OH 45212
New Family Support
Grant Application:
The DSAGC is seeking funds for the New Family Support component of our Early Matters Program. The Early Matters Coordinator provides all expectant and new parents of a baby with Down syndrome with comprehensive counseling, accurate information, and connection to proper support with local organizations. Also, we are seeking funding for a one-time need - a new telephone system. The cost of a new system to accommodate our growing staff is $3,700. A more detailed description can be found in one of our attachments.
Grant Evaluation Report:
The DSAGC’s New Family Support program continues to be successful in supporting families as they begin their journey with a child with Down syndrome. The support, resources and encouragement that they receive from the DSAGC provide a positive foundation. Receiving accurate information often helps to dispel worries and fears that families may have. Being connected to additional resources helps ensure that their child receives that the children receive the support they need to address challenges and reach their potential. Connecting families to one another provides support and e
Since June 2022, the DSAGC Early Matters Coordinator has served 22 families who had or are expecting a child with Down syndrome. Eighteen babies have been born during this time and an additional 4 families are currently expecting a child with Down syndrome. Five of the families received an at-birth diagnosis and 15 families received the diagnosis prenatally. (The diagnosis time for two of the families is unknown.) The DSAGC has seen an increasing percentage of prenatal diagnoses in recent years. This is due in part to more families opting for prenatal testing (often to determine gender early) which can also indicate an increased risk of chromosomal disorders, such as Down syndrome. There were an even number of boys and girls.
The Early Matters Coordinator has provided varied levels of support to each family based on their needs and interests. She provided each family with accurate information about Down syndrome, connections to additional resources and services that could benefit their child/family, as well as information on the programs and support services available through the DSAGC. All families were also provided with the opportunity to connect with other families who are currently raising a child with Down syndrome, through our Community Groups. Families may choose how much support they receive from the DSAGC. Some may only need minimal support and information, while others connect more in-depth as they process the diagnosis and begin their journey. Because more families are reaching out prenatally, the DSAGC is able to support the family for a longer period of time.ncouragement to help families feel less alone.
Website:
http://www.dsagc.org Amount: $20,000
Date: June 2022
