About Us

Supporting Children, Strengthening Families, Building Community

HANDS of Wyoming County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting early childhood development, strengthening families, and improving access to quality educational and family support services throughout Wyoming County and surrounding communities.

Since 2002, HANDS has worked alongside parents, caregivers, educators, and community partners to help children grow, learn, and reach their full potential during the most important years of development.

  • HANDS of Wyoming County works to promote positive child development through effective parenting support, early intervention services, family outreach, and quality early childhood education opportunities.

    We are committed to:

    • Supporting and strengthening families

    • Promoting healthy child development

    • Encouraging school readiness

    • Improving access to community resources

    • Supporting educators and caregivers

    • Building a connected network of services for families

  • All children will develop, learn, and grow to realize their full potential.

    We believe every child deserves a safe, nurturing environment where they can thrive emotionally, socially, physically, and academically.

  • HANDS supports children and families throughout Wyoming County and Northeast Pennsylvania through a variety of programs designed to meet families where they are.

    We serve:

    • Parents and caregivers

    • Infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children

    • Families expecting a child

    • Children preparing for kindergarten

    • Families in need of community resources and support

    • Educators and early childhood professionals

Children seated at a table engaged in coloring or drawing activities in a classroom setting.

Our Story

HANDS of Wyoming County began in 2002 as part of a statewide initiative focused on improving the quality of early care and education across Pennsylvania.

After conducting a community needs assessment in 2004, it became clear that local families needed:

❊ Greater access to quality early childhood education

■ Stronger family support services

⭓ Better coordination between community resources

● Increased awareness about the importance of early childhood development

In response, HANDS officially became a nonprofit organization in 2005 and established the Wyoming County Family Resource Center to provide meaningful support, education, and connection for families throughout the community.

Today, HANDS continues to grow while remaining deeply committed to helping local children and families succeed.

What We Do

HANDS provides programs and services that focus on the healthy development and well-being of children and families.

Our Programs Include:

  • Parents as Teachers Home Visiting Program

  • PA Pre-K Counts Preschool Programs

  • Family Skills Training

  • Positive Parenting Program (Triple P)

  • Family Resource Center

  • Emergency Food & Diaper Pantry

  • Educational Workshops & Activities

  • Community Resource Referrals

Our services are designed to support children from prenatal stages through kindergarten and beyond.

Get Involved

There are many ways to support the work of HANDS of Wyoming County.

You Can:

  • Donate to support programs and services

  • Volunteer your time

  • Partner with our organization

  • Participate in community programs

  • Advocate for early childhood education

Every contribution helps strengthen children, families, and our community.

Donate

  • A Recognized Leader in Family Support

    HANDS of Wyoming County has earned recognition for delivering high-quality family support and home visiting services.

    We are proud to be designated as a Parents as Teachers Blue Ribbon Affiliate, recognizing our commitment to implementing evidence-based services with the highest standards of quality and care.

    This distinction reflects our dedication to helping children become healthy, safe, and ready to learn.

  • Why Early Childhood Matters

    The early years of a child’s life lay the foundation for future learning, behavior, health, and success.

    Research consistently shows that children benefit greatly when families have access to:

    • Positive parenting support

    • Early learning opportunities

    • Safe and stable environments

    • Community resources and guidance

    By supporting families early, we help create stronger futures for children and a healthier community for everyone.

  • Community Partnerships & Support

    HANDS works closely with schools, healthcare providers, social service agencies, educators, and community organizations to ensure families have access to coordinated and compassionate support.

    As a nonprofit organization, we rely on grants, partnerships, donations, and community support to continue expanding services for local children and families.

    Partially Funded By:

    • United Way

    • Children’s Trust Fund

    • Wyoming County Human Services

    • Wyoming County Community Health Foundation

    • Office of Child Development & Early Learning

⯍ Meet Our Team

Group of men and women posing around a table, some wearing white t-shirts with 'parents as teachers' logo, in a room with a framed map on the wall and a flag in the background.

Dedicated to Supporting Children, Families, and Our Community

The team at HANDS of Wyoming County is passionate about helping children thrive and empowering families with the resources, education, and support they need to succeed.

Every day, our staff works alongside parents, caregivers, educators, and community partners to strengthen families, promote healthy child development, and create opportunities for children to reach their full potential.

Through compassion, experience, and a commitment to service, our team helps make HANDS a trusted resource for families throughout Wyoming County.

  • From early childhood education and family support services to community outreach and program administration, each member of our team plays an important role in fulfilling our mission.

    Our staff is committed to:

    • Supporting positive child development

    • Strengthening families through education and resources

    • Promoting school readiness

    • Connecting families with community services

    • Creating welcoming and inclusive environments for all

  • At HANDS, we believe meaningful change happens through relationships. Our team takes the time to listen, understand each family's unique situation, and connect them with the programs and resources that best meet their needs.

    Whether assisting a parent with child development questions, helping a family access community resources, or preparing a child for kindergarten success, our staff is committed to making a positive impact every day.

Colorful wooden alphabet blocks arranged on a white surface, showing letters A through Z in various colors.

⭓ Leadership

Cathy Franko

Executive Director

Provides leadership and strategic direction for HANDS while overseeing programs, partnerships, and initiatives that support children and families throughout Wyoming County.

Email: cathy.franko@hands-wyco.org

✽ Family Support & Parent Education Team

Our Parent Educators work directly with families through home visiting services, educational programs, resource connections, and individualized support designed to help children and parents thrive.

Contact HANDS of Wyoming County

1687 Scottsville Rd
Mehoopany, PA 18629

Phone: (570) 833-2350

We welcome families, community members, educators, and partners to connect with us and learn more about our programs and services.