To the editor:

Since 1929, the Bristol Rotary Club has been committed to making a difference in people’s lives. Their recent, generous donation to Looking Upwards’ Parents as Teachers program will have a powerful impact and will help to provide much-needed support to dozens of families in our community. Clearly, the Bristol Rotary Club exemplifies their motto of Service above Self.

Parents as Teachers (PAT) is a free, evidence-based home-visiting service, offered to families and caregivers as they strive to ensure that their children get off to a strong start in life. The Bristol Rotary Club recognizes the need for families to have the vital support PAT offers. As highlighted in the Surgeon General’s advisory, Parents Under Pressure, in today’s society parents and caregivers face challenges to their mental health. Parental stress can have an impact that has the potential to affect children’s wellbeing and healthy development.

The Bristol Rotary Club’s generosity reminds us that when a community comes together, we can build healthier, more resilient futures for everyone. Looking Upwards is truly grateful to the Bristol Rotary Club for their investment in Parents as Teachers and for believing in the power of providing early support to families—so children can thrive in their foundational years. 

To learn more about Parents as Teachers please visit: https://health.ri.gov/family-visiting/services/parents-teachers.

Emily Spence
Bristol
Director, Looking Upwards’ Parents as Teachers