• inadequate child care,
• teenage pregnancy,
• income security,
• child abuse and neglect,
• infant mortality,

• poverty,
• substance abuse,
• problems of older adults, and
• job security

In addition, many of Guilford County's limited-resource families are now faced with new financial and personal decisions due to changes in government funding. Able-bodied individuals who previously received welfare benefits are now entering the workforce. Problems affecting these families include: adjusting to work, getting along with others, locating quality childcare and budgeting their paycheck in order to provide for family needs.

Moreover, sources reported in 2003, that 918 girls between the ages of 10 and 19 became pregnant in Guilford County. Of those pregnant teens, 593 gave birth. Over the past five-ten years, the teen pregnancy rate has decreased.

Appropriate actions will be taken to provide quality information on how to strengthen family relationships through parenting skills, financial management, problem-solving skills, empowerment, conflict resolution, effective communication and stress management.

In order to help families cope with these problems, Extension Personnel will be equipped to make appropriate referrals for family services, support services and self-help support groups.

Visit our State Family & Consumer Sciences Website: NCCES Family and Consumer Sciences Website