National Responsible Fatherhood Media Campaign Launched

PSAs will help inspire new commitment to responsible fatherhood

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Administration for Children and Families (ACF) today announced the launch of the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse Media Campaign.

The effort, part of ACF’s ongoing initiative to promote and encourage responsible fatherhood, includes a clearinghouse to give fathers greater access to parenting assistance, programs and education services.

“The important role a father plays in a child’s life cannot be overstated,” said HHS Acting Assistant Secretary for Children and Families Daniel Schneider. “These public service announcements will help a great number of fathers realize and fulfill their crucial role as a loving and supportive parent.”

Research shows that there are nearly 25 million children growing up in American without involved fathers. Children with fathers present in their lives are significantly more likely to do well in school and avoid high-risk behaviors such as drug use and criminal activity compared to children who have uninvolved fathers.

The Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse Campaign is produced in collaboration with the National Fatherhood Initiative, a non-profit organization working to increase the number of children growing up with involved and loving fathers, and the Advertising Council.

“I am delighted to partner with U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Children and Families, Office of Family Assistance and the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse on this heart-warming campaign to encourage more fathers to take an active role in their children’s lives,” said Peggy Conlon, President and CEO of The Advertising Council.

The public service announcements will include two 30-second TV spots, five radio spots and additional print and online media encouraging responsible fatherhood and featuring the tag line “Take time to be a dad today.”

 “Families with committed mothers and fathers are best able to provide children with happy and healthy homes,” said Sidonie Squire, director of ACF’s Office of Family Assistance. “The resources made available by the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse will encourage fathers to be active in their children’s lives.”

For more information please see http://www.fatherhood.gov

Note: All ACF new releases, fact sheets and other materials are available at www.acf.hhs.gov/opa/index.html.

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