Partnership for Children, a nonprofit based in Salinas, is celebrating its tenth anniversary while marking the opening of new offices dedicated to supporting families with children who have serious illnesses. The organization has expanded its services significantly since its inception, evolving from providing transportation for about 50 children to assisting approximately 260 families annually across the Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito tri-county region.
Executive Director Jennifer Ramirez highlighted the importance of their mission, stating, “When we first started, we were providing transportation services to about 50 kids. Over the years, we’ve grown both in the number of children and families we serve and in the depth of services we provide.” Families in the area often face challenges accessing specialized medical care, as there is no local children’s specialty hospital. Ramirez explained, “We remove the transportation barrier to make sure they can access that care,” emphasizing the critical role the organization plays in facilitating necessary medical appointments.
In addition to transportation, Partnership for Children offers various forms of financial assistance, which include support for rent, utilities, and other essential living expenses. The organization also coordinates grocery deliveries, ensuring families have access to necessary supplies. Ramirez noted their collaboration with the Food Bank for Monterey County, providing practical support such as diapers, car seats, and household goods. They also foster community connections through their family connections program, which includes social outings and holiday celebrations to help families connect with each other and the organization.
Over the past decade, Partnership for Children has shifted its approach to better serve families. In the early days, families would contact the organization as needs arose, but now they actively check in to ensure ongoing support. “We’re not waiting for them to call us,” Ramirez said, reflecting on the organization’s commitment to proactive engagement.
The nonprofit operates with a dedicated team of three full-time staff members, including Ramirez, alongside five part-time drivers. “We like to say we’re small but mighty,” she remarked. Their efficiency and passion for the work they do are evident in their operations.
New Office Location and Future Collaboration
On January 29, 2024, Partnership for Children celebrated both its decade of service and the opening of its new offices located at 427 Pajaro St., Suite 5, within the Rodgers Center for Children’s Health. This new location follows two previous relocations and places the nonprofit alongside Coastal Kids Home Care, which has been serving medically fragile children with complex needs for over 20 years.
The recent expansion of Coastal Kids Home Care, supported by a generous donation of $250,000 from Valeta and T.J. Rodgers, allowed the agency to double its office space and enhance its facilities, including the addition of counseling rooms and areas for physical and occupational therapy. This collaboration is seen as a significant step toward improving care for children with complex medical needs.
Margy Mayfield, founder and CEO of Coastal Kids Home Care, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Building on our long history of working together, this closer collaboration will allow us to provide more comprehensive, coordinated care for children with complex medical needs and extend services to more families in our community.”
The combined efforts of both organizations aim to enhance support for families navigating the challenges of caring for children with serious health issues, reinforcing their commitment to improving the quality of life for those they serve in the Salinas area. As Partnership for Children enters its next decade, it continues to adapt and grow, ensuring vital resources and support remain accessible to families in need.
