County to explore possible locations for a new FRC

By Tom Hintgen

Otter Tail County Correspondent

In late 2023 the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners contracted with a consultant to complete a community needs assessment on development of one or more Family Resource Centers (FRCs). 

An FRC can be located at either a school or community location, and acts as a welcoming hub of support, services and opportunities for families.

One of the top community strengths identified across focus groups relates to the positive aspects of living in a small town. Many participants expressed appreciation for the wide range of resources available to them. 

They also identified numerous service gaps. Participants frequently noted the lack of affordable and accessible childcare and lack of transportation and behavioral health services. Other identified gap areas include the lack of a centralized place to go that has access to resources.

On April 9 the consultant made recommendations to the county board of commissioners. Included were applying for a development/implementation grant and establishing a core team to evaluate possible sites for potential Family Resource Centers (FRCs). 

Likely locations, representing all four quadrants of Otter Tail County, would include Pelican Rapids (northwest quadrant), Parkers Prairie (southeast quadrant), New York Mills (northeast quadrant) and Fergus Falls (southwest quadrant).

In 2021 Scott County, southwest of the Twin Cities, became the first county in Minnesota to create a formal network of Family Resource Centers. Each center in Scott County has established a parent advisory council to help guide it.

A good example of Family Resource Center

The Polk County Family Resource Center, which includes Crookston and the surrounding area, is an example of a place for area families to connect with different services and assistance as well as other parents for support.

This Family Resource Center provides information on community resources, referrals to services and assistance with the completion of applications and other paperwork. All services provided by Polk County are free.

The Polk County FRC, in partnership with the Crookston Library, provides several activities and events for families to bring their children, including the Summer Library Experience and Storytime.