Child First

A statement from Charlotte Min-Harris, President & CEO for the National Service Office for Nurse-Family Partnership and Child First. At the National Service Office for Nurse-Family Partnership and Child First, we know that voting is one of the most powerful ways to shape the future of our communities. Research shows that increases in physical and mental health and well-being are related to increases in civic engagement, such as voting. When you vote, and encourage those eligible around you to vote, you help influence the policies that impact access to healthcare, education and the services in your community. Election Day is November 5th, and many locations have the option for early voting. You may know you’re going to vote, but do you have a plan? - Decide if you are voting in-person or, if applicable, by mail. - Check and see if early voting is available. - For early voters and on Election Day, many mainstream ride-share companies are offering discounted rates to help get to polling locations. Be sure to also check with your local transit and transportation systems, as many are providing discounted or free rides to make voting more accessible. - To be fully prepared to vote, it’s important to know the issues and candidates on the ballot. Take time to educate yourself on them to make informed decisions. You can view what will be on your ballot beforehand, so you know what to expect when it’s time to vote. - Visit our state-specific resources for information on voter registration, important dates and information on how to vote in your state. At the NSO, we urge all eligible voters to make a plan, consider the issues that matter the most and make your voice count. Voting is your power – use it to shape the future for the health and well-being of families and your communities.

As more communities across the U.S. embrace Indigenous Peoples' Day, the National Service Office for Nurse-Family Partnership and Child First (NSO) proudly stands in solidarity with this movement, recognizing the importance of honoring Indigenous peoples rather than perpetuating the myths surrounding Columbus Day. At the NSO, we also take this time to recognize Ute, Arapaho and Cheyenne peoples who are the original stewards of the land where the NSO headquarters lie in Denver, CO. Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a movement created to replace Columbus Day. This movement began in 1977, one year before the American Indian Religious Freedom Act was set in place. In 2021, an Indigenous Peoples' Day proclamation marked a significant step toward federal recognition, yet many states and local governments have yet to follow suit. We encourage all to take this opportunity to deepen their understanding of the diverse Indigenous cultures that continue to shape our nation. This is not a time of mourning but of celebration. It’s an opportunity to honor the vibrant cultures, deep histories and contributions that Indigenous peoples continue to offer America. Together, we can work toward a future where respect and recognition of Indigenous peoples are central to all that we do.

We are proud Child First was included in the 2024 Home Visiting Yearbook, developed by the National Home Visiting Resource Center (NHVRC). The Yearbook presents the landscape of early childhood home visiting across America. It features updated information from robust data sources, including 17 evidence-based home visiting models and 11 emerging models. View Child First's listing in the 2024 Home Visiting Yearbook ⤵️

A statement from Charlotte Min-Harris, President & CEO of the National Service Office for Nurse-Family Partnership and Child First: The March of Dimes report, published on September 10th, "Nowhere to Go: Maternity Care Deserts Across the US," paints a troubling picture of worsening access to maternal care in the U.S. According to the report, 5.5 million women live in counties with little or no access to maternity care services. Women in these areas face higher risks of preterm birth, and inadequate prenatal care is more prevalent, particularly for women of color and those facing economic inequalities who are disproportionately impacted by these gaps in care. These findings are further compounded by a recent report from Mental Health America, “State of Mental Health in America,” which highlights that the country is also facing a mental health crisis. The shortage of mental health professionals and the lack of affordable mental health care leave too many individuals, especially those in communities facing barriers, without the support they need. At the National Service Office for Nurse-Family Partnership and Child First (NSO), we are committed to addressing these disparities. Nurse-Family Partnership and Child First reach the families who need it the most, providing critical health services and mental health support to those who often lack access. We advocate for policies that expand access to maternal and mental health services so that no family is left behind. The need for equitable, comprehensive care continues to grow. Join us by becoming an advocate or donor - together we can create a future where every family has the support they need to thrive.

The Center for Prevention and Early Trauma Treatment (CPETT) at Child First announces our latest tool for empowering staff and enhancing collaboration: The Power of Group Process: A Guide for Reflective Practice Groups. This is an essential resource for supervisors overseeing programs that support infants, young children and families. Whether new to supervision or an experienced leader, this guide offers invaluable support to enhance your supervisory practices and transform your team dynamics, fostering a cohesive, supportive and growth-oriented team environment.

The National Service Office for Nurse-Family Partnership and Child First is excited to share with you the 2023 Year In Review, highlighting our achievements and impact. Thank you to all those that make our work possible - donors, volunteers, local partners and affiliates, bipartisan policymakers, and nurses and clinicians who serve the families in their communities. We are grateful for your partnership.

A statement from Charlotte Min-Harris, President & CEO of the National Service Office for Nurse-Family Partnership and Child First: As we observe Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) Mental Health Awareness Month in July, I want to emphasize our commitment to addressing the mental health needs of under-resourced and underserved populations, particularly those at high risk before, during, and after childbirth. At the National Service Office for Nurse-Family Partnership and Child First, we understand the unique challenges faced by BIPOC families and provide comprehensive, culturally responsive care to support their mental well-being. We know that at a national level: • BIPOC experience mental illness at similar rates as white people, but they’re less likely to get treatment due to cultural barriers, stigma, and lack of access to care. • It is estimated that only 39% of Black or African American adults, 25% of Asian American adults, and 36% of Hispanic/Latino adults with any mental illness were treated, compared to 52% of non-Hispanic white adults. • 1 in 5 mothers are impacted by mental health conditions and Maternal Mental Health (MMH). 75% of individuals impacted by MMH conditions remain untreated, increasing the risk of long-term negative impacts on mothers, babies, and families. • New BIPOC mothers have rates of postpartum depression close to 38%, almost twice the rate of white new mothers. Over 50% of postpartum depression cases experienced by BIPOC mothers go underreported. Read the full statement, including the steps Child First and Nurse-Family Partnership are talking ⤵️

HRSA announced a $2.5m investment in the first Licensure Portability Grant Program, allowing providers to practice across state lines. This change will increase behavioral healthcare access across the nation. Read more ⤵️

A message from Charlotte Min-Harris, President & CEO of The National Service Office for Nurse-Family Partnership and Child First: As we celebrate Pride Month, we are proud to reaffirm our heartfelt commitment to serving everyone, however they identify. This month honors the courage, resilience, and contributions of the LGBTQ+ community. At the NSO, we are passionate about creating a space where each person feels respected, valued, and seen for who they truly are. Inclusivity is not just a value we hold; it’s a fundamental part of who we are. We strive to foster an environment where everyone feels respected, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other aspect of identity. One way we do this is by encouraging staff and partners to use inclusive language that acknowledges and embraces the diversity of human experiences. The Nurse-Family Partnership and Child First programs support families in living their authentic lives and following their dreams, nurturing a welcoming and accepting environment. By embracing inclusive language and affirming diverse identities, we help create a space where everyone can thrive. This Pride Month – and every day – let’s celebrate the strength and beauty of each individual as we work together to build a more inclusive and equal society where every voice is valued.

The National Service Office (NSO) for Nurse-Family Partnership and Child First announces the appointment of three new members to the Board of Directors. The NSO welcomes Veronica Willeto DeCrane, Tolu Thomas and LaKisa Ward as they each offer extensive experience in managing operations and implementing improvements in various organizational settings. “On behalf of the NSO Board, we are so excited to welcome and work alongside Veronica Willeto DeCrane, Tolu Thomas and LaKisa Ward,” said Paurvi B., chair of the NSO Board. “Their extensive experience and commitment to communities brings a new level of dynamism to our board as we work together to advance NSO’s mission.”