Rep. Dell'Aquila Announces $635k for Infant and Maternal Home Visit Pilot Program

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Richard Dell’Aquila (D-Seven Hills) today announced the state 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.

“Enhancing vital childcare programs in our state will help build brighter futures for Ohio families and improve their physical and financial stability,” said Rep. Dell’Aquila. “I’m optimistic that such steps will lead to healthier outcomes, support economic development, and lessen future taxpayer costs, while offering the help many of Ohio’s new parents and their families need.”

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.