Family Connects NJ is a program that connects parents with a specially trained nurse for a personalized follow up visit at home within the first two weeks after their child’s birth. All New Jersey families who have welcomed a newborn into their lives, whether through birth, adoption, or as a resource parent or kinship caregiver, can receive the support they may need as they navigate the challenges, joys, and adjustments of parenthood. Visits are offered to all families in areas where the program is rolled out.
During the Family Connects NJ visit, nurses assess the health of both the parents and the newborn and offer valuable information during this important transition. Covered areas can include feeding and sleeping tips, connecting parents to helpful resources in their community, or assisting families recovering from the tragedy of stillbirth.
Below is a testimonial from a new mom who arranged for a Family Connects NJ visit in June:
“…I first learned about the Family Connects NJ program when a very kind representative visited me in the recovery room after my c-section back in June and asked me if I’d like to have a nurse follow up with me once I was discharged from the hospital. I agreed, as it sounded like a wonderful opportunity. It was then when my postpartum journey began with the support of my FCNJ nurse specialist. I had no idea how much I would value my decision until I met my nurse.
She did my first visit in the hospital while my baby was in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) following what was a very traumatic birth that occurred nearly 5 weeks before my baby’s due date… I spent every single day in the NICU following my discharge. My FCNJ nurse allowed me to voice my feelings and discuss how I was coping with everything going on while also checking to make sure that I was healing properly. She stayed in contact with me throughout the entire time that my baby was in the NICU and has continued to do so.
She and I communicate via text regarding various postpartum issues, including breastfeeding/pumping, concerns I’ve had about my baby and my healing and mental health through it all. She has provided incredible advice to me as a first-time mom that has made this experience so much smoother and calmed many of my fears and anxieties. I honestly have to say that I wouldn’t have gotten through postpartum without her…
Since my delivery, she has demonstrated an outstanding level of professionalism, care and concern for me and my baby. She has encouraged me to continue to take care of my mental health while prioritizing my physical healing, checked in on my baby, and cheered us on when he was finally released from the NICU. She has made herself available to answer any questions that I have and has truly become one of my biggest supports during this time…
She is an amazing person and I feel so blessed to have the privilege of living in a state that offers such a wonderful program for all new moms, and the opportunity to have been partnered with such an incredible professional. This is one of the best gifts, aside from welcoming home a new baby, any mom can be afforded.”
While this testimonial was specific to the Family Connects NJ nurse and team, we know that ALL nurses are making a difference for their patients, just as this one did. Thank you all for your service!
