Help Me Grow home visits support, reinforce Chrystal’s parenting skills
Chrystal was just 15 when she welcomed her first child into the world. Young and overwhelmed, she knew she needed extra help as a new mom. That support became a reality with the Help Me Grow home visiting program, the same program that had once assisted her own mother. Each week, a home visitor brought not only baby supplies and toys but also wisdom, encouragement and a listening ear that Chrystal needed.
Chrystal was just 15 when she welcomed her first child into the world. Young and overwhelmed, she knew she needed extra help as a new mom. That support became a reality with the Help Me Grow home visiting program, the same program that had once assisted her own mother. Each week, a home visitor brought not only baby supplies and toys but also wisdom, encouragement and a listening ear that Chrystal needed.
“She taught me to understand my baby’s cues, build a schedule, and choose toys that helped her grow,” Chrystal recalled. “We built a routine that stuck with me — reading together, doing arts and crafts. But most of all, she helped me believe I wasn’t crazy, that my baby was normal, and that I was doing a good job. She helped me become an actual parent.”
At 31, Chrystal is starting a new chapter in her family. Along with her teenage daughter, she now has “a good man and a new baby boy.” Once again, she turned to Help Me Grow for guidance. With weekly support from her home visitor, Chrystal is rekindling her confidence as a mother.
“The Help Me Grow home visiting program is for moms who need more than just financial help or diapers. It’s one-on-one, like having a friend in your home. They are there for the baby, but also there for you, almost like a therapy session with a friend. It’s especially important if you can’t depend on your real family. They become your family.”
Chrystal’s Help Me Grow home visitor is a mom and grandmother herself. During weekly visits, she gets to know both mom and baby as she supports their progress and growth. Chrystal is grateful to have help without feeling judged. “It’s a wonderful blessing to have somebody there along for the ride. When you’re at your darkest moments, they bring that light to help you grow and to brighten your day.”
Help Me Grow, Ohio’s parent support program, encourages early prenatal and well-baby care. It is one of several social services that collaborates with Catholic Charities, Diocese of Cleveland.
Fast facts: 2026 Catholic Charities Appeal
Theme: “Yours are the hands with which he blesses all the world”
Goal: $15.3 million
Why: To provide diverse, critical services for people of all races and religions throughout the eight-county Diocese of Cleveland.
How to give:
- Go online and donate on the secure website at catholiccommunity.org/2026Appeal.
- Use the pledge card and envelope included with the bishop’s annual letter.
- Text to donate by texting CCHope to 216.223.9372.
- Call 800.696.6525, Ext. 1910 to give by phone.
- Send your gift to Catholic Charities Appeal, 1404 E. Ninth St., eighth floor, Cleveland, Ohio 44114.
Learn more
Contact Sarah Gozur, 216.696.6525, Ext. 1910; email sgozur@CatholicCommunity.org; or visit catholiccommunity.org/impact.
Visit catholiccommunity.org/2026Appeal for more information.
