Congressman honors the Growing Together Program
The Growing Together program, a part of Presbyterian Children’s Homes and Services (PCHAS), was honored by Congressman Jake Ellzey’s office for its exceptional contributions to the community. Julia Hester, representing the Congressman’s office, presented the recognition during a meeting of the Navarro County Early Childhood Coalition, celebrating the program’s commitment to addressing early childhood needs in the Corsicana area.
In 2024, the Growing Together program provided parenting education to 131 families in Navarro County, surpassing its original goal of 90 families. Since the Bi-Stone Family Resource Center opened in Mexia in September 2024, the program has extended critical services to an additional 60 families in Limestone and Freestone counties. Partnering with the Navarro County Early Childhood Coalition, which it founded, the program offers parenting education, support groups, and essential resources like diapers and formula.
“Parenting has become much less stressful and far more enjoyable with these skills. I now feel much more confident about my child’s future and our journey together, thanks to this knowledge,” shared a participant in the parent education program, emphasizing the transformative impact of Growing Together’s support.
Additionally, the Bundles of Joy initiative has provided approximately 600 packages containing baby care essentials to Navarro Regional Hospital since its launch in October 2023, further illustrating the program’s far-reaching impact.
“We were honored to be recognized by the Congressman’s office for our fifth anniversary,” said Rachel Gillespie, director of the Growing Together program. “When we began this coalition in 2020, we could never have expected what it would become. Our goal is to make Navarro County a place where every child is connected, safe, and thriving by age 5. Thanks to the incredible collaboration of providers and community leaders, we are closer to that goal than ever before.”
The initiative’s holistic approach includes longterm parenting education, Parent Cafés, and community events, ensuring families have multiple ways to connect and find support.
PCHAS extends its gratitude for this recognition and remains steadfast in its mission to serve families. To learn more about Growing Together or to support its efforts, visit www. pchas.org or contact Rachel Gillespie at rachel.gillespie@ pchas.org. For more information about the Navarro County Early Childhood Coalition, visit www. navarrocountyearly.org.
