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Senica County proclaims June 2026 Responsible Fatherhood Month; JFS highlights paternity, visitation work
Summary
The Senica County Department of Jobs and Family Services presented a proclamation recognizing June 2026 as Responsible Fatherhood Month and described paternity, child-support and visitation programs, including 49 paternities established in 2025 and an access-visitation program (Patchworks House).
The Senica County commissioners on June 16 proclaimed June 2026 as Responsible Fatherhood Month following a presentation by the Department of Jobs and Family Services (JFS).
A JFS representative introduced administrators Jen Schumacher (protective services) and Michelle Mclofflin (child support), who explained why the county is marking the month and summarized several program metrics. JFS staff said research and local experience show that engaged fathers contribute to children's emotional and educational outcomes and that earlier father identification can support placement and child-support efforts.
Schumacher and McLofflin provided program details: according to JFS staff, the office established 49 paternities in 2025 and had established 23 paternities as of May 2026; the office said Senica County is one of six counties to operate an access-visitation program (identified in the record as Patchworks House) that receives a state grant to support supervised exchanges and visitations. McLofflin said, out of 79 children currently involved with children-services work, 65 have identified fathers.
The board read and approved a proclamation that notes the benefits of supportive fathering and encourages public awareness of county resources. The proclamation language cites national and local parenting initiatives and encourages residents to learn about supports that strengthen father involvement.
What’s next: JFS staff said the proclamation is intended to increase public awareness of paternity and visitation services; staff encouraged families and partners to contact JFS for program information and for child-support or protective-services assistance.
