Rep. Somani Announces $635k for Infant and Maternal Home Visit Pilot Program

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Anita Somani (D-Dublin) today announced that the Controlling Board has approved funding for a new, evidence-based home visit pilot program designed to provide in-home support to new moms and families in the postpartum period. The initiative is part of a suite of new programs aimed at reducing infant and maternal mortality rates and improving early childhood outcomes across Ohio.

“As an ObGyn, I’ve seen how helping families in the postpartum period can make a world of difference. Programs like this one that provide support and guidance go a long way in not only improving physical health outcomes, but also mental health outcomes for both mothers and babies,” said Rep. Somani.

The program, Family Connects, will offer all new families a nurse home visit around three weeks after the family brings their baby home. During the visit, the nurse will be able to offer guidance & support, answer questions, and address any concerns the new parents may have while in the home; the program will also be designed to better connect families with additional clinical or community support if needed. The home visits will begin in the summer with the goal of serving approximately 4,000 new families across 11 counties within the first year of the program.