Lexington-based HANDS expands services to assist more pregnant women and parents

Previously only served first-time parents

LEXINGTON, Ky. (July 10, 2015) — Kentucky’s Health Access Nurturing Development Services (HANDS) program at the Family Care Center in Lexington has expanded to serve eligible expectant parents and parents of newborns. HANDS is a home visiting program for pregnant moms-to-be and new parents. The program provides support in building healthy, safe environments for the optimal growth and development of children.

Previously the program, which is in its 15th year of operation, was only available to first-time mothers and fathers. Expansion was made possible through state funding.

A doctor’s office, school, church, family member or friend can refer an expectant mother or parent of a child three months old or younger to the program. The family will then receive home visitation services and be introduced to parenting skill development such as recognizing their baby’s needs and what to expect as their baby grows.

“The main goal of HANDS is to help encourage healthy pregnancies and birth for mothers, and healthy child growth and development for babies,” said Brenda English, HANDS program administrator for Kentucky.