J.D. Potié
QUYON Feb. 28, 2019
The Social Development Table of the Pontiac (TDSP) hosted its first ever monthly support group sessions for parents with children from newborns through eight years old in late February.
The event, which took place on Feb. 26 and 28 in Fort-Coulonge and Quyon, respectively, was organized to give parents who feel overwhelmed with the stress of raising children the opportunity to get together and discuss with people who are going through similar hardships.
Lisa Corrigan, who animated the event said that with the popularity of workshops for parents regarding the behaviour of young children, it was optimal to kick off an initiative that offers support for those in need, notably in small communities like in the Pontiac.
“I think it brings people together,” said Corrigan. “In the past, in any other type of group similar to this that we’ve done, I’ve seen friendships be created between people, especially in a place like Luskville and Quyon. It’s not like there’s a million places where parents can congregate.”
She said that she hopes the event can provide the parents a feeling of belonging and sense that they are not alone and that they can ideally share tips with one another regarding how they deal with stress or how they’ve gotten through seemingly unbearable circumstances.
Though the attendance was underwhelming Corrigan was optimistic that the support group will grow in popularity as time goes on.
“Once it catches on with word of mouth, hopefully people will bring their friends,” said Corrigan.
She believes that it’s not about the number of parents who seek help, adding that she’s more than willing to offer her assistance, even if it’s just one person who needs it.
According to Corrigan, the TDSP is planning on hosting parent’s support groups, on the last Tuesday and Thursday of every month, for the foreseeable future.
