July 14, 2025 — Now in its second full year, Family Connects NJ is showing clear impact — and exposing the deep inequities new families face. The evidence-based program, offered free to all mothers regardless of income or immigration status, sends trained nurses to visit families within two weeks of birth to provide medical check-ups, answer questions, and connect them to community supports.
As of May, nurses had visited more than 4,000 families in 11 counties. About 17% required urgent intervention, and three-quarters were linked to needed services. Nurses described lifesaving cases involving high blood pressure and infant breathing issues — but also systemic barriers that make follow-up care difficult.
Staff cited gaps tied to poverty, racism, immigration fears, and unaffordable medical costs. Many families are visited in motels, shelters, or temporary housing. “When we go in, we are there to support the family. It doesn’t matter what your house looks like,” said Emily Haines, chief nursing officer at the Partnership for Maternal and Child Health of Northern New Jersey.
Despite challenges, nurses called the work deeply rewarding. “You’ve built trust with this client enough that they want to share milestones with you,” said Yashirie Benitez, a maternity nurse. “It’s kind of its own reward being able to spend that time with the family.”
Read More: NJ Spotlight News: Nurses Laud Family Connects NJ Home-Visit Program, Acknowledge Challenges