The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has developed a special initiative to support and strengthen the roles of fathers in families. This initiative is guided by the following principles: – All fathers can be important contributors to the well-being of their children. – Parents are partners in raising their children, even when they do not live in the same household. – The roles fathers play in families are diverse and related to cultural and community norms. – Men should receive the education and support necessary to prepare them for the responsibility of parenthood. – Government can encourage and promote father involvement through its programs and through its own workforce policies. The Department’s activities account for those circumstances under which increased involvement by a father or a mother may not be in the best interest of the child. This is true for a small number of children, however. The Department strongly supports family preservation and reunification efforts when they do not risk the safety of the child.
