Strengthening Families and Communities: A Scoping Review of Family Resource Center Outcomes

Background and Purpose: In recent years, there has been a growing push to move beyond reactive child welfare responses toward more community-based, primary prevention strategies. Family Resource Centers have become a key part of this shift, serving as trusted hubs that offer accessible, strengths-based support to families. These centers are grounded in the belief that when families have what they need, such as connection, resources, and support, they’re better equipped to create safe, stable, and nurturing environments for their children. By reducing risk and strengthening protective factors, Family Resource Centers represent a promising approach to preventing child maltreatment at the community level.

Methods: This scoping review synthesizes empirical literature on the impact of Family Resource Centers on family and community well-being. Following the PRISMA framework, relevant studies were systematically identified through electronic databases, including APA PsycINFO, ERIC, Social Work Abstracts, Web of Science, and Family Studies Abstracts. Grey literature was located via Google Scholar and reference list searches. Inclusion criteria included empirical studies (quantitative, qualitative, and dissertations) examining outcomes related to family and community well-being. No publication date restrictions were applied in order to capture the full scope of FRC development, implementation, and impact over time.

Results: A total of 1,044 articles were identified through the database search. Following screening, full-text review, and data extraction, 42 studies met inclusion criteria. Spanning four decades (1981–2023), these studies reflect the continuous role of Family Resource Centers (FRCs) in supporting families and communities. Sixteen distinct FRC models were represented across the selected studies. Key findings were organized into four thematic areas: (1) parenting practices and family well-being, (2) social support and community well-being, (3) child maltreatment, and (4) program satisfaction and engagement. Overall, findings highlight FRCs’ potential to reduce child maltreatment and related risk factors, though methodological limitations and gaps in population diversity limit generalizability.

Conclusions & Implications: Family Resource Centers play a critical role in promoting family well-being, improving parenting, and preventing child maltreatment, especially among high-risk families. FRC participation is linked to reduced stress, enhanced parenting skills, stronger social support, and improved economic stability. FRCs also foster community connection and reduce reliance on formal child welfare systems. However, research reveals gaps, including limited inclusion of diverse populations, inconsistent program implementation, and reliance on cross-sectional designs. While evidence supports FRC effectiveness, especially in reducing child welfare involvement, further longitudinal and context-specific studies are needed to strengthen understanding of what works, for whom, and under what conditions.