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DHS, 1515 Arch St.,
Philadelphia, PA 19102
215-683-4DHS
Home >  Community Based Prevention > Services for First Time Mothers

Services for First Time Mothers

The Nurse Family Partnership is one of the few existing evidence-based child abuse prevention models in the country.

Goals

  • To improve the outcomes of pregnancy (e.g., reduce rates of preterm delivery, low birth weight, and obstetric complications) by helping women practice sound health related behaviors including obtaining good prenatal care, improving diet and reducing use of cigarettes, alcohol and illegal drugs;
  • To improve infant health and development (e.g., reduce injuries, abuse and neglect; improve developmental accomplishments and reduce emerging problem behaviors) by helping parents provide more responsible and competent care for their children;
  • To improve maternal life (e.g., reduce rates of unintended subsequent pregnancies; increase women’s educational achievements and workforce participation) by helping parents develop a vision for their own future, continue their education and find jobs.

Target Population

First-time mothers at risk for poor birth outcomes living in one of the following four areas in North Philadelphia:

Service areaZip codes
119121, 19122, 19123, 19132, 19133
219120, 19124
319125, 19134, 19137, 19149
419140, 19144
      Eligibility

      The program is limited to first-time mothers at or below 185% of the federal poverty level. Participants must be enrolled in the program before the 28th week of their pregnancy (and preferably between the 12th and 20th week).
        Program Components

        The program utilizes qualified nurses with a minimum of a BSN. These nurses follow detailed visit-by-visit protocols developed by the National Center for Children, Families and Communities at the University of Colorado. The program helps participants learn how to use other needed health and human services and involves the mother’s support system including family members, father (when appropriate), and friends. Services are provided up to the child's 2nd birthday. Caseloads are no more than 25 families per nurse.

        ·Adolescent Violence Reduction Partnership (AVRP)
        ·Community EPIC Stakeholder Groups
        ·Crisis Nurseries
        ·Curfew Ordinance
        ·Delinquency Prevention
        ·Diversion Case Management Services
        ·Enhanced Services for Mothers in Substance Abuse Treatment
        ·Family Partnership Program
        ·Parenting Programs
        ·Policies and Protocols
        ·School Linked Behavioral Healthcare
        ·Services for Parents with Mental Retardation
        ·Teen Court
        ·Truancy Prevention Programs
        ·Y-HEP Drop-in Center