New Jersey Expands Home Visiting Initiative in New Jersey

New Jersey families will soon have access to free home visiting services after the state expands its Family Connects NJ program to six more counties. The expansion, which will take effect in January 2025, will allow families in Somerset, Sussex, Passaic, Hudson, Bergen, and Ocean Counties to access the program. It was previously available only in five counties. “Having a strong support system during the early days of parenthood is crucial,” Gov. Phil Murphy said in a statement. “When new parents bring their baby home for the first time, it can be overwhelming. It takes a village to raise a child, and through Family Connects NJ, the State of New Jersey is committing to be part of that village while families adjust to life with a newborn.” The program offers new mothers the opportunity to connect with a nurse and discuss their health and the health of their babies. It also helps connect families to community resources and educational materials. “We know that the first weeks of bringing home a newborn can be hectic and stressful, and any extra support that can be provided to a family is a great help,” said NJ DCF Commissioner Christine Norbut Beyer. “Through the Family Connects NJ program, families will get a nurse visit in the comfort and convenience of their own home to ensure both parent and baby are doing well, that they receive important health check-ups and screenings, and that the family receives referrals to important services and additional help when necessary.” Nurses will visit families about two weeks after a baby is born. The state funds the program and is part of an effort to reduce infant mortality and morbidity and improve families’ health and well-being.