Cultivating Success though Evidence-Based Home Visiting Programs in New Mexico

Growing up in a stable and stimulating environment with nurturing caregivers is paramount for optimal childhood development. For new and expectant parents who face barriers or challenges (such as low incomes or substance use issues) that may limit their capacity to provide the needed nurturing and environmental conditions, voluntary home visiting programs offer support and resources—such as prenatal care, parental coaching, developmental screenings, and community resource linkages—which can help prevent an array of negative outcomes.

Home visiting programs have myriad positive impacts, including: increasing family self-sufficiency; cultivating children’s academic success; preventing child maltreatment and child health problems; curbing substance misuse; and reducing mental health issues. Given these impacts, home visiting programs can bolster public safety, economic prosperity, and national security in the long-run.

Greater investments in home visiting programs across New Mexico would help to put children and families on a strong path, unhampered by health and social barriers—increasing their potential to fully participate in building a thriving and prosperous state. Increased resources would help more families build foundations for future success and help reduce the lifelong impact of early childhood adversity. Ultimately, home visiting programs create stronger families and strengthen the fabric of our communities, which helps increase public safety and national security and reduce burdens on taxpayers throughout New Mexico.