Healthy Families
Healthy Families is a free supportive home visiting program for pregnant and parenting families. Our Family Support Specialists partner with you on your parenting journey as you navigate the first few years of your little one’s life. Together, you will focus on healthy child growth and development, positive parenting, self-care, and so much more.
We’re here to help with:
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Stress, Anxiety, & Depression
Offering caring support to help parents understand and manage depression and other mood challenges.
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Parenting Support & ResourcesAssist in creating a healthy supportive environment for your family.
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Grief & Loss
Providing support and guidance to help you cope with grief, loss, and emotional challenges.
Eligibility
To be eligible for Healthy Families, you must:
- Reside in Cumberland, Gloucester or Salem County, New Jersey
- Must be pregnant or parenting a child under age 1 at intake (some exceptions made for children over age 1)
Measurable results your whole family feels
93%
enrolled caregivers began breastfeeding, supporting healthy early nutrition and infant well-being
97%
enrolled children received developmental screenings to monitor milestones and identify support needs early
100%
enrolled caregivers screened for depression
What to Expect
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Reaching Out
You can self-refer by completing the Connecting New Jersey (CNJ) form or by calling 856-431-4180 to speak with our bilingual Intake Specialist. Doctors and other providers can also refer via the CNJ referral form.
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Schedule Your First Visit
An Intake Specialist or Home Visitor will reach out to you to schedule your first meeting and learn more about your family.
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Moving Forward with Care
Services start 1-2 weeks after enrollment based on your availability. During your first visit, which will take place in the home or at a pre-determined community location, you will work with your home visitor to determine the schedule for future meetings and set your goals. Visits typically last 1 hour and will take place weekly, bi-weekly or monthly as needed.
FAQ’s
How much does the Healthy Families home visiting program cost?
Healthy Families is free.
Is this beneficial if I’m not a first-time parent?
Yes. Parents can enroll with their 2nd, 3rd, 4th child and beyond and as every birthing experience is different. Your home visitor can tailor the program goals to your families’ current needs.
Are there any child development assessments conducted through the program?
Yes. You will complete a developmental questionnaire for children for up to 36 months called the Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ).
How long can I stay in the Healthy Families program?
You can participate until your child’s 3rd birthday.
Are services available in Spanish?
Yes, he srvices are available in Spanish. A mojority of our Healthy Families Home Visitors are fluent in English and Spanish.
Are services provided in-person or virtually?
Services take place via in-person home visits, or in-person at another location in the community.
How do I qualify for Healthy Families services?
To be eligible for Healthy Families, you must:
- Reside in Cumberland, Gloucester or Salem County
- Must be pregnant or parenting a child under age 1 (some exceptions made for children over age 1)
Do I need a referral from my doctor to participate in Healthy Families?
No. Families can refer themselves to Healthy Families by completing the Connecting NJ referral form or calling the program directly. Healthcare providers and community organizations may also submit referrals. The program welcomes families who are interested in receiving support during pregnancy and the early years of parenting.
What kinds of topics can I discuss with my Family Support Specialist?
Families can discuss a variety of topics related to pregnancy, parenting, child development, family well-being, and self-care. Family Support Specialists work alongside families to provide encouragement, share information, and connect parents with resources that support healthy growth and development.
Can Healthy Families help connect me with community resources?
Yes. Healthy Families can help connect families with community resources and services that support their needs. Depending on your situation, your Family Support Specialist may provide information about local programs, supports, and resources that can help promote the health and well-being of your family.
