The Family Resource Center (FRC) is located in the Turlock Unified School District (TUSD) office. Led by Marie Russell, TUSD Director of Communications, Family Engagement, and Outreach along with Angelica Cardenas Ayala, Coordinator of Equity Initiatives and Angela Scott the Administrative Secretary, this office has been open since last school year (2023-2024) and is used for a wide variety of events.
Some months ago, the Pan-Asian Heritage Society (PAHS) hosted Betty Yee, gubernatorial candidate for California Governor and former State Controller there.
Not to mention, they have also hosted Saturday workshops for the Ivy League Project since 2023 where students learn about soft skills and important communication skills to help in their education journey.
Additionally, they have hosted mobile clinics for our community with the help of organizations like Legacy Health Endowment.
One of the biggest projects the FRC encourages is the Latino Family Literacy Project. “The Latino Family Literacy Project (LFLP) is a culturally responsive, research-based program that strengthens family engagement through literature, language development, and shared learning experiences,” shares Ayala.
Ayala also leads the LFLP’s Early College Awareness Program from there, “which focuses on helping students and families from underrepresented communities prepare for college and career pathways.”
“The [FRC] is a hub of support that provides resources, programs, and services based on the needs and interests of our diverse families. Some of our signature services include parent education classes, school supplies, food resources, hygiene products, health services, and more,” adds Russell.
Furthermore, “the FRC participates in the Second Harvest of the Greater Valley’s Fresh Food for Kids program which includes not only a food pantry but a drive-thru food distribution twice a month as well. The pantry is open to not only families, but students. We hope more students visit,” Russell continues.
The FRC is a great resource for the students of TUSD. Russell, Ayala and Scott welcome everyone with an open arm and hope that more students will stop by!