EARLY CHILDHOOD SUPPORTS

Why This Issue Matters

In Westchester County, 95.2% of eligible children are not receiving home visiting services. Home visiting programs are critical for strengthening optimal development of children and families. [1] Westchester Children’s Association advocates for the expansion of home visiting programs at the county and state level so that every eligible family can have access.
  • The early years are critical for children’s physical, cognitive and emotional development.
  • Current evidence-based home visiting models report a variety of positive results including healthier birth outcomes, lower incidence of abuse or neglect, and better school readiness. [2]

The Importance of Early Years

Early childhood is critical for physical, cognitive, and emotional development. Evidence-based home visiting programs improve birth outcomes, reduce abuse or neglect, and enhance school readiness.

The Issue

Home visiting services provide personalized support and connect families with needed services. In Westchester and New York State, limited capacity and funding leave many eligible families without this vital resource. Trained professionals help caregivers with parenting techniques and support throughout their child’s development. Despite proven benefits, only a small portion of eligible families receive these services.
shares ideas and an action plan for early childhood advocacy

WCA’s Hope Quilt Project

One small square of cotton can do little to cover a child in a storm, But many stitched together can blanket, comfort, and even protect a child in a crisis.

WCA’s Current Efforts

  1. Home Visiting Workgroup: WCA leads a group of stakeholders to advocate for service expansion and improvement.
  2. State Advocacy: Pushing for a Home Visiting Coordinator position to increase program capacity.
  3. Vision 0-3 Conference: Organizing an early childhood conference.
  4. Coordinated Intake Pilot: Partnering with Lower Hudson Valley Perinatal Network to develop a pilot in Yonkers.

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  • Child & Youth Homelessness
  • Home Visiting / Early Childhood Development
  • Youth Justice / Raise the Age
  • Youth Development