New and expecting parents

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Parents and caregivers are the most influential people to a family's health. BPHC gives new and expecting parents, and their children, access to support for building a healthy future.

For more information, contact:

Becky Cruz Crosson
1010 Massachusetts Ave.

Annex

BOSTON, MA 02118
617-534-5832
hbhc@bphc.org

Welcome Family Program

Are you a new mom? Would you like a free one-time nurse visit? Would you like a free bag full of goodies for you and your baby? Do you live or are you staying in Boston?

We can help

Motherhood is a joyful, exciting time, but it can be stressful too. Loving and caring for a newborn can be wonderful and difficult.

Welcome Family is a free program available to you and your newborn. It provides a one-time visit from a nurse experienced in supporting moms and newborns. The nurse will check in on how you are doing and answer your questions. You’ll also get connected to other resources you might be interested in.

Get answers for your questions

During your visit, you’ll have up to 90 minutes with an experienced and understanding nurse. You and your newborn will receive a health assessment, and information about:

Breastfeeding
Calming your newborn
Bathing, changing and taking care of your newborn
Eating well to keep you and your newborn healthy
Safe sleep

You’ll also get a Welcome Family bag full of educational materials and some supplies.

How to make a referral

Fill out the referral form and either fax, mail, or call in your referral.

About us

The Boston Public Health Commission provides home visiting programs and other services for pregnant and parenting families.

Families must be residents of Boston with a child under five years old. All services are free, voluntary and confidential. Healthy families are essential to a healthy Boston.

The Commission focuses on nurturing children, parents, and caregivers with supportive programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much does the program cost?

A: The Welcome Family visit, follow-up call and support are all completely free.

Q: Who is this program for?

A: The program is for any mom with a newborn regardless of income or how many children you've had before. If you live or are staying in any of Boston's neighborhoods, you qualify! Our services are completely voluntary and confidential.

Q: When and where will the visit take place?

A: The nurse will visit within the first few weeks after the birth of your newborn. Most visits take place in your home, but if you are more comfortable meeting at a different location, that's okay, too.

Q: Can I have other people with me on the visit?

A: The program is designed for you and your newborn, but other people who help support and care for your baby are welcome to attend.

Q: What will happen during the visit?

A: Your nurse is there to answer your questions and give you information to keep you and your baby healthy. The nurse will weigh your baby, check your blood pressure, and ask questions about nutrition, social support, and more. Your nurse can provide education on topics such as breastfeeding, safe sleep, infant cues, healing after delivery, and infant development. Our nurses have a wealth of community resources to make sure you get the support you need.

Q: Who can make a referral?

A: Anyone! We’ll accept referrals from anywhere. Anyone reading this page can send us a referral. Please click here to find out how.