Welcome Family

Feeling nervous about becoming a new parent? We offer a free one-time home visit to expecting parents and parents with newborns up to 8 weeks old.

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Bringing home a newborn is an exciting and joyful experience, but it can also come with new challenges. What happens after you bring your baby home? How do you adjust to live with a newborn?

Our team of public health nurses are here to help. As part of your free home visit, one of our experienced nurses will check in on you, your baby, and answer any questions you may have. They're here to support you every step of the way, providing guidance, resources, and encouragement as you adjust to life with your baby and build confidence in caring for them. All services, including the home visit, follow-up call, and ongoing support, are free, voluntary, and confidential.

You must be a resident of Boston who is either expecting a child or who has a child 8 weeks old or younger to apply for a Welcome Family home visit.

Apply for Services

Questions? Contact us:
617-534-5832
hbhc@bphc.org
1010 Massachusetts Ave.

Annex

BOSTON, MA 02118

What to Expect

During your home visit, you’ll have up to 90 minutes with an experienced and understanding nurse who will:

Provide a health assessment for you and your newborn
Provide information about:
- Breastfeeding
- Calming your newborn
- Bathing, changing and taking care of your newborn
- Eating well to keep you and your newborn healthy
- Safe sleep
Connect with you with other resources you may be interested in
Gift you a Welcome Family bag that includes educational materials and some supplies

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the program cost?

All services, including the home visit, follow-up call, and support are free.

Who is this program for?

You must be a resident of Boston who is either expecting a child or who has a child 8 weeks old or younger to apply for a Welcome Family home visit.

There are no restrictions to apply based on income or how many children you’ve had.

When and where will the visit take place?

The nurse will visit within the first few weeks after the birth of your newborn. Most visits take place in your home, but if you are more comfortable meeting at a different location, that's okay, too.

Can I have other people with me on the visit?

The program is designed for you and your newborn, but other people who help support and care for your baby are welcome to attend.

What will happen during the visit?

Your nurse is there to answer your questions and give you information to keep you and your baby healthy. The nurse will weigh your baby, check your blood pressure, and ask questions about nutrition, social support, and more. Your nurse can provide education on topics such as breastfeeding, safe sleep, infant cues, healing after delivery, and infant development. Our nurses have a wealth of community resources to make sure you get the support you need.

Who can make a referral?

Anyone can send a referral to Welcome Family. To make a referral, click here.