FAQ's
Who is eligible for Healthy Families Steuben?
Any expectant or new parent with a child under three months of age residing in Steuben County is eligible to receive services from Healthy Families Steuben. There are no income guidelines and services are completely voluntary. There is no cost to participating families. We have parents of all ages in the program, and you do not necessarily have to be a first time parent.
How do I contact Healthy Families for an initial appointment?
Many health care providers and agencies in Steuben County have survey forms you can fill out that will be passed on to Healthy Families. Once received, someone from Healthy Families will contact you to arrange an appointment. However, you can also arrange an appointment simply by calling the Healthy Families office closest to you.
We have offices in:
Addison 607-359-2259
Bath 607-776-6621
Hornell 607-324-6027
What happens at this initial appointment?
A Healthy Families worker will come to your home and have a conversation with you to find out a little bit about your family. The worker can tell you about resources available in our county for parents, as well as let you know about any specialized services which may benefit your family. Some people think of Healthy Families as a “Welcome Wagon” for new parents. You may decide that you would like to enroll in regular visits from a Healthy Families worker. If the parent wishes, visits can continue until the child enters school.
What happens during a typical home visit?
The job of the home visitor, or Family Support Worker, is to provide parents with support and information. A Family Support Worker is someone families can talk to about the joys and challenges of parenting.
During a typical home visit:
- Child development information is provided.
- Child’s health needs are discussed and support is given to access medical care and information.
- Parents are shown how to play and interact with their children in ways that will enhance their development.
- If desired by the family, referrals are made to other appropriate services.
