Services

Rationale for Services

Before Friend was formed in the 1970s, there was no local resource for human services in northeastern Berks County. It has been and continues to be the mission of Friend, Inc., Community Services to assess the human service needs of residents in the service area and find ways to help meet those needs. The aim is to provide assistance to families and individuals that will strengthen personal and family ability to cope with the stresses and strains of everyday life. Friend will also assist individuals with special physical or emotional needs and to help anyone in a time of emergency.

Target Population

This United Way supported service provides:
Comprehensive family strengthening, case management, and outreach services to at-risk children and youth and adults, in collaboration with Family Life Services. Program serves residents of Kutztown, Kutztown University, Fleetwood, and Topton as well as Albany, Greenwich, Maidencreek, Maxatawny, Longswamp, Richmond, Rockland, and Ruscombmanor Townships.

Friend seeks to assist families and individuals of any age, income, or background who are having difficulty in overcoming the obstacles of everyday living.

Range of Services Provided.

Friend, Inc., provides a comprehensive range of family strengthening and outreach services. Clients are helped with problems and needs either by direct case management or referral to an appropriate local agency. Support and parenting assistance groups are provided. Individuals and families are assisted in evaluating the obstacles they face in their lives and in finding the resources they need. Services not directly provided by Friend, Inc., can be arranged through referral, in partnership with county-wide human service resources. In some cases, payment can be provided for counseling services. A food pantry is available for those who qualify. Emergency assistance is available, with Friend, Inc., serving as a Salvation Army Service Unit.

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