Our Mission
The Helping Families Initiative (HFI) is dedicated to strengthening families by addressing challenges that affect a child’s academic performance, emotional well-being, and overall family stability. By connecting families to vital community resources, HFI aims to reduce the risk of substance abuse, school suspensions, juvenile arrests, and dropout rates.
Our Goal
HFI operates through a collaborative effort between the Marshall County District Attorney’s Office, local schools, and community partners. The goal is to eliminate barriers that prevent children from thriving by offering early intervention and prevention services. Through a strong network of referrals and support, HFI empowers families to overcome challenges and create a more stable future.
Referral Process
The Helping Families Initiative is a proactive, voluntary program designed to support students and families while reducing the likelihood of juvenile court involvement. Services are available to families with children enrolled in the Marshall County Schools system. Referrals may be submitted by school personnel or by families using the contact form at the bottom of this page.
Please note that our HFI Director is frequently in the field working with schools and families. If she is unable to answer your call, kindly leave a message or submit the contact form, and she will respond as soon as possible. Once a referral is received, a case officer will follow up to begin the support process.
What to Expect
Families referred to HFI are assigned a dedicated case officer who will assess their needs, connect them with resources, and provide ongoing support. Services may include referrals for:
- Academic support and mentoring
- Mental health services
- Parenting education
- Food, clothing, and housing assistance
- Utility support
- Domestic violence services
- Childcare resources
- Job training and employment assistance
At the heart of the Helping Families Initiative is the belief that early support can change the course of a child’s life—and we’re here to help make that possible.
Support the Helping Families Initiative
Community support makes our work possible. Your sponsorship helps the Helping Families Initiative continue providing early intervention, family support, and vital resources to children and families across Marshall County. Every contribution directly strengthens our mission to build safer, healthier, and more stable homes.
Checks can be made payable to Helping Families Initiative and mailed to:
Marshall County District Attorney’s Office
Attn: HFI
424 Blount Avenue, Suite 208
Guntersville, AL 35976
If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor or learning more about partnership opportunities, please complete the form below and someone from our team will reach out soon.
HFI Contact
Helping Families Initiative
Helping Families Initiative
HFI Hours:
Monday–Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
*Closed for lunch from noon – 1:00 p.m.
*Our HFI Director often travels throughout the county to meet with families and schools, so office hours can vary.
Phone number:
Office: 256-582-8113, extension 107
Cell: 256-293-2137
Mailing address:
424 Blount Ave, Suite 208
Guntersville, AL 35976
Physical address (by appointment only):
435 Blount Ave
Guntersville, AL 35976
(located behind the Marshall County Courthouse next to the Marshall County Jail)
In Partnership With
“Helping Families reminds us that education is about more than test scores. It’s about building stability, hope, and opportunity for every child in our community. We are proud to have this partnership supporting our schools.”
Jordan Phillips
Director of Student Services for Albertville City Schools,