What We Do
From birth to age 5, a child’s brain develops more rapidly than at any other stage of life. During these early years, children learn and grow through everyday experiences and interactions with the world around them. Every child develops at their own pace, and it’s natural for parents and caregivers to have questions along the way.
Help Me Grow Merced County (HMGM), a program of Exceptional Parents Unlimited (EPU) funded by First 5 Merced County, is here to support families every step of the way. We provide free developmental screenings, promote early identification of developmental concerns, and connect families to community resources and services that best meet their child’s unique needs. Our goal is to ensure every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential through timely support, early intervention, and strong community partnerships.
Mission
Our mission at Help Me Grow Merced County is to break down barriers that prevent families from accessing developmental and behavioral services. We promote free developmental screenings and connect families to community resources and services, supporting early identification and intervention so every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Vision
Our vision at Help Me Grow Merced County is for all children in Merced County to have the opportunity to reach their fullest developmental potential and overall well-being through access to information, resources, and support.
Access Our Services
Testimonials
Meet the Help Me Grow Team
Our Help Me Grow Merced County team is here to support young children and their families every step of the way. Our team brings experience in child development, family support, care coordination, developmental screening, and connecting families to community resources.
We work alongside families to understand their child’s unique needs, identify available resources and services, and help families navigate the support systems in their community. With compassion, respect, and a family-centered approach, we are committed to helping every child and family feel supported, heard, and connected.
Linda Thao
Supervisor, Help Me Grow Merced County
Jose Reyes
Case Manager, Help Me Grow Merced County
Sunshine Xiong
Case Manager, Help Me Grow Merced County
Collaborations
Make a Referral
Refer a child, family, or caregiver to Help Me Grow and connect them with resources, developmental screening, and support services.
Contact Us
Help Me Grow can connect you to additional resources in our community. Please reach out today if you have questions.