Home Visits for New Dads
For the first time in its 15-year history, Contra Costa’s popular Welcome Home Baby program is offering home visiting services to new fathers. Matched with a male home visitor, the program helps fathers to become more involved in their baby’s life, which research shows produces better health and educational outcomes for children.
“Children with involved, stable fathers have fewer behavioral problems, higher educational attainment, and lower levels of emotional stress,” said Odessa Caton, program director at AspiraNet, the nonprofit that runs Welcome Home Baby. “Home visiting is an effective way to reach new parents, reduce child abuse, and improve child health and development, but most programs are only for mothers. We’re out to change that.”
First 5 Center Supports Mother with Chronic Illness
The following is a letter received by Nensi Brailo, a mother who found assistance and support for her family at the West County First 5 Center located in San Pablo.
I am writing to let you know what a big difference the West County First 5 Center made in my life. I am a relatively old parent. For years I worked to put myself through college as well as two graduate programs. I was a career woman who ended up losing my job due to chronic illness. I could have lost everything I have accomplished overnight had it not been for the support I have gotten from First 5. Continue reading