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Mission Statement The hope and dream of every parent is to raise their children in a healthy home and environment.
SPARKS’ mission is to provide mothers and families, who are struggling and suffering unnecessary pain, with the proper care they deserve, making this dream a reality. Upon learning the astonishing facts that one in eight new mothers is afflicted with Postpartum Depression (PPD), several women have taken it upon themselves to see to it that no woman should have to suffer the pain, embarrassment and fear of PPD and its related illnesses. Many women feel ashamed and helpless and often ignore their symptoms. If left untreated, these symptoms can lead to tragic and even fatal consequences. Postpartum Depression can disable not only the woman, but her entire family as well. Families may fall apart, with stable homes being ripped apart in divorce; unfortunately, children often bear the brunt of this outcome. It is undisputed that if untreated, Postpartum Depression can lead to abuse, hospitalization, suicide and infanticide. These women have witnessed firsthand families and marriages being torn apart leaving confusion, chaos and heartbreak in its wake. The sheer number of families suffering and on the verge of total collapse was shocking. Sitting by idly and watching families crumble is never an option, something needed to be done immediately. Thus, SPARKS was born. An organization created to provide comprehensive, integrated services to meet the educational, psychosocial and psychiatric needs of women suffering from a host of different issues ranging from Premenstrual Syndrome /Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder to Postpartum Depression etc. Here at SPARKS we understand and value a woman’s need for privacy. SPARKS recognizes the uniqueness of each individual’s circumstances and handles every situation with the utmost sensitivity and expertise. SPARKS has established a vast network of licensed psychiatrists and social workers who have been specially trained in dealing with the unique issues of women. In addition, numerous doctors, alternative practitioners and nutritionists have joined SPARKS’ team of dedicated professionals to bring you the appropriate care and support you deserve, all for a reduced fee. SPARKS supports every individual’s right to self-determination, complete information and active participation in all health care decisions. Our practice guidelines provide for medical consultation, collaboration and referral, and linkages with health and human services. SPARKS’ hotline is operated by full time professional counselors. SPARKS has countless community members, who themselves have overcome PPD, trained as volunteer mentors. Their personal experiences enable them to empathize and understand, providing them with the necessary tools to handle the most challenging circumstances. Additionally, our Mom Support Groups and Parenting classes provide immediate relief and support to struggling mothers and their families. Furthermore, SPARKS is tapping into established community resources, galvanizing the efforts of non-profit emergency medical support agencies and local volunteers to provide in home services such as: food, housework help, respite and childcare. To date, over 1,000 families have been helped, restoring peace and stability to their homes. |