The V.I. Department of Health (DOH) celebrated four families in June during a graduation for those who took part in the V.I. Nurse/Family Partnership (NFP). The mothers, fathers and children all received gifts, a catered lunch and other treats. The annual graduation was held at the Windward Passage.
Commissioner Michelle S. Davis, Ph.D., was present for the event which she opened by applauding the parents for their commitment to building healthy, strong families, and she recognized the participating nurses for their passion to serve.
The participating mothers and babies received home care visits from prenatal through the baby’s second birthday. They are being celebrated for incorporating and sustaining healthy habits that benefit them and their families. DOH is also proud of the significant role the NFP program plays in building healthy families. Since its inception is 2012, NFP has served at least 88 families. Results include:
- 100 percent of the babies have received all immunizations by age 24 months
- 92 percent of the mothers initiated breast-feeding
- 90 percent of the babies were born full term
The nurses who visit first-time mothers focus on building therapeutic relationships with new mothers and supporting them with education, goal setting, medical resources, positive behavior changes, nursing screening and assessments and attentive parenting (such as reading to the child). The program ensures a bright future and solid foundation for the development of baby and family. (www.doh.vi.gov)
