KidsFirst Counseling & Family Resource Centers in Roseville and Auburn offer free bilingual education and resources for local children, young adults, parents and families. These include parenting classes, health and wellness programs, crisis phone lines, financial literacy classes, support groups and counseling at low or no cost.
Addison Bangs, KidsFirst marketing and development manager, says KidsFirst is often a lifeline for families.
“KidsFirst is committed to support families through challenges across multiple generations with compassionate, family-centered care. I’d love to share the story of Christina, a mom to a child with severe anxiety and depression, both having utilized our services for over 10 years, and are welcome as long as they need us,” Bangs says.
Christina recalls when she was first introduced to KidsFirst. “When I came to the United States, my aunt told me about a place that could help families in need. Years later, when I saw my own family facing similar issues to what I endured as a child, I reached out to KidsFirst.”
“Christina’s story is a powerful reminder that recognizing a need and reaching out can change everything — and that with the right support, families can grow stronger together.” - Addison Bangs, Marketing and Development Manager
Her oldest daughter, just seven at the time, was struggling with severe anxiety and depression. After a quick assessment, KidsFirst immediately connected her with a counselor. Through months of weekly sessions, her daughter learned to manage her anxiety, interact confidently with others and succeed in school.
“Today, my daughter is okay. She doesn’t have any problems at all, thanks to her counselor,” says Christina.
As challenges continued, Christina sought support for herself to better understand her past and break the cycle for her daughters. The guidance she received helped her create a home filled with stability, love and emotional safety.
“It was important to me that my children had the help they needed,” she says.
When her youngest daughter began showing early signs of anxiety, Christina didn’t hesitate. She brought her to KidsFirst and today, she is thriving at home and in school.
“The staff is compassionate, patient and they truly care about us,” Christina says. “They even connected us to outside resources to help my husband so our family had everything we needed to be healthy. Their support means everything — I consider them an extension of my family.”
