A Nurse-Family Partnership Program is coming to our area.
The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit, and Peterborough Public Health have partnered with McMaster University’s School of Nursing for the initiative. Officials say it is an evidence-based home visiting service that ensures young expecting parents who are socially and/or economically disadvantaged can receive personal support during pregnancy and after the child is born up to two years of age.
The program is a free public health service for pregnant individuals having their first baby who are 24 years old and younger. Those enrolled are visited by a public health nurse throughout their pregnancy, continuing until their child reaches two years of age. Officials say over this time, an expecting parent and the public health nurse may explore topics such as: how to have a healthy pregnancy, preparation for childbirth, nutrition, exercise, parenting, child development, future life planning, and accessing community resources.
“This program provides expecting and new parents with the confidence and the tools they need not only to ensure a healthy start for their baby during pregnancy, but to also have a life of opportunities and success for both parent and child,” said Dorothea Service, Manager of Healthy Families and Harm Reduction with the HKPR District Health Unit. “By developing a close relationship with a public health nurse, pregnant individuals and parents can rely on a trusted resource for advice on everything from prenatal support to caring for their child and taking steps to provide a positive future for their new family.”
The local health unit is accepting new parents to the program who are 24 years old or younger, pregnant with their first child, less than 29 weeks pregnant, and live in the health unit’s geographical area.
Healthcare providers and social service agencies can refer a client to the program by completing an online referral form, or through CareDove. Individuals who are currently pregnant can contact the HKPR District Health Unit directly to enroll by calling 1-866-888-4577 extension 5003.