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About Us: FAQ |
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Q: Where are Healthy Families America programs located? A: Healthy Families America programs are located in over 430 communities in 35 states, DC and Canada. Results from the 2003 survey indicated that most Healthy Families America efforts are closely affiliated with a specific, well defined geographic area. 30% of participants live in smaller cities or towns, 26% in rural areas, 15% in mid-size cities, and 16% in major urban areas. Q: What kind of family does Healthy Families America serve? A: Healthy Families America programs offer voluntary home visiting services to parents facing multiple challenges (e.g. elements that would add stressors to any home: single parent status, low income, substance abuse problems, victim of abuse or domestic violence, etc.) so that they have the support they need to better care for their children. Results from the 2003 Profile of Program Sites indicate that more than 47,500 families are currently enrolled in the program and are receiving services. Q: How do families enroll in Healthy Families America? A: Most Healthy Families America programs have an assessment process where all families within the target population are systematically assessed by a trained staff member, either prenatally or within two weeks of the birth of a child. Healthy Families America programs typically work with hospitals, clinics and other community agencies who serve pregnant women and/or new parents to provide assessment services. Assessments enable staff to identify family needs and refer them to supportive services such as HFA. Q: Who provides program services to families? A: Staffing is a critical component of all Healthy Families America programs. Healthy Families America places a high priority on recruiting highly qualified staff who not only have direct service experience, but who have strong interpersonal and communication skills and a willingness to work with culturally diverse families in the communities in which they serve. Direct service staff consist of Family Assessment Workers (FAWs) and Family Support Workers (FSWs). FAWs are specially trained to conduct assessments. In addition, they may also do initial screenings of potential participants. FSWs provide home visiting services. During these visits, the FSWs work closely with families to help them identify their needs and set goals. Staff help parents learn how to interact with their children and teach them to recognize their babies' cues. They also ensure that families are linked with a medical home to receive the necessary health care services. Based on the 2003 survey, HFA programs employed nearly 2,000 Family Support Workers (home visitors).,On average, HFA home visitors possess four years of home visiting experience and three years tenure with their HFA program. In terms of educational levels, 76% of Family Support Workers are college graduates or have attended some college. Q: What services are provided to families? A: The Staff of Healthy Families America programs:
Q: What training is available for Healthy Families America staff? A: Healthy Families America direct service staff, program managers and supervisors are required to attend Healthy Families America Primary Training to obtain a comprehensive overview of the program, the Critical Elements and role specific responsibilities. Q: How much does it cost to participate in Healthy Families America? A: Services by Healthy Families America are FREE to families. For results from our most recent survey, download Healthy Families America: 2003 Profile of Program Sites |
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