I will be introducing a resolution recognizing April 20, 2026, through April 24, 2026, as “National Home Visiting Week” in Pennsylvania.
 
The early childhood years are the most active period for the developing brain and a stable, secure relationship with a nurturing, caring adult is a key factor in the development of young children.  Many parents begin the difficult lifetime job of raising a child feeling unprepared for the challenges ahead and children have a better, healthier start when parents have the support and skills needed to raise them. 
 
Thankfully, home visiting programs help parents meet the unique needs of their children, promote healthy development, strengthen family relationships, reduce the risk of abuse and neglect, and promote equity by providing resources to families who are furthest from opportunity.  Evidence‑based home visiting programs support the health, safety, and early education of young children and their families across Pennsylvania. Backed by decades of research, evidence-based home visiting is a powerful and proven strategy to support pregnant women and families with young children. During these voluntary sessions, home visitors such as nurses, social workers, early childhood specialists, mental health clinicians and care coordinators, and paraprofessionals mentor pregnant women, parents, and other caregivers to support the parent-child relationship. Home visitors are supportive partners who build a trusting relationship with families and help guide them through the early stages of raising a child.
 
In Pennsylvania, children and families are helped by the efforts of the “Childhood Begins at Home” campaign.  This campaign includes child advocacy organizations in conjunction with eight evidence-based home visiting models operation in Pennsylvania that receive public funds to support their programs.  Home visiting can include a variety of different programs and models, including early childhood home visiting programs and parenting education programs.  Well-trained professionals implement early childhood home visitation so that all families can access information in ways that respect their unique beliefs, traditions and customs.
 
I hope that you will join me in co-sponsoring this resolution.  Thank you for your consideration.