Fundamentals of Fatherhood Program Ends Following Grant Expiration 

The Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services (Health Department) has concluded its Fundamentals of Fatherhood program following the expiration of federal grant funding administered by the Office of Family Assistance (OFA). The final day of service was Sept. 30, 2025.

Since launching in 2015, Fundamentals of Fatherhood has helped thousands of fathers and father figures across Long Beach strengthen their parenting skills, build economic stability and foster healthier family relationships. Each year, the program supported an average of 180 participants through free parenting classes, mentorship, job-readiness assistance and individualized coaching.

The program was primarily funded through an approximately $10 million federal grant that supported services from 2015 to 2025. At the time of renewal, the program earned high marks for its impact, especially in responsible parenting, healthy family dynamics and long-term stability, along with its strong organizational capacity. Despite this strong performance, the program was not selected for continued funding. Its conclusion mirrors a national trend as many cities navigate reductions in federal support for family-strengthening services.

As a result, the following services are no longer offered:

• Parenting and Fatherhood Education: group classes and one-on-one sessions designed to help fathers develop parenting skills, communication strategies and positive discipline practices.

• Employment Readiness Support: job-seeking assistance, resume building and workforce development guidance tailored to fathers.

• Case Management and Referrals: individualized support to connect fathers with housing, health care, legal assistance and other vital resources.

Residents seeking fatherhood or family support services can explore other local programs at longbeach.gov/fatherhood, including

• The East Los Angeles Women’s Center

• All4Kids Father Engagement Program

• Shields For Families

• Thriving Dads

• Healthy Relationships California

• Children’s Institute, Inc., Project Fatherhood

• Volunteers of America of Los Angeles (VOALA)

• Friends Outside in Los Angeles County

Community members interested in sustaining local health and family services can make a tax-deductible donation to the Health and Human Services Fund through the Long Beach Community Foundation, which supports a variety of City health programs.

No City layoffs occurred as a result of the program’s closure; impacted staff were reassigned to new roles or are currently pending reassignment.