News & Events

FELLAS Empowers Essex County Fathers

The Partnership for Maternal and Child Health of Northern New Jersey is launching a new initiative to support fathers in Essex County. FELLAS – Fathers Empowered to Learn, Lead, and Achieve Success – engages fathers to strengthen parenting skills, promote healthy relationships, and increase economic stability through employment training and support.  

“The Partnership may be known for our focus on maternal health, but our public health programs serve the entire family. We are excited to launch FELLAS and bring this innovative program directly to dads in Essex County,” stated Marielle Natera, MPH, Director of Community Programs. 

FELLAS focuses on three main goals: promoting responsible fatherhood, fostering healthy marriages/relationships, and increasing economic stability. Through one-to-one parenting support, group education sessions, in-home couple/co-parenting communication skills, referrals to practical resources, and employment training, FELLAS provides the skills and support needed for families to thrive. 

“Strong families begin with strong dads. But not all dads have access to the same resources,” stated Leonard Davis, MA, FELLAS Program Manager. “FELLAS is a support network that fosters connections and provides the tools needed for dads to feel confident in their parenting skills and provide for their families.” 

This exciting initiative is generously funded by a 5-year grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families from October 2020 through September 2025. 

FELLAS is actively accepting participants and referrals. Fathers of children ages 0 – 24 who reside in Essex County are eligible for the program. Become one of the FELLAS today! Get connected at www.partnershipmch.org/fellas or call 973-372-4353. 

FELLAS Referral Form