Pilot programs, living laboratories
The BSF program is a five-year federal demonstration project designed to fortify low-income, unwed couples expecting a baby or with a newborn. The goal is to ensure a healthy and enduring relationship among mom, dad and baby. At the request of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Children and Families Administration, evaluation of this demonstration is being compiled by Mathematica Policy Research Inc.
Our cornerstone program continues to provide intensive home-based services during the first years of a child’s life. This long-term program promotes improved parenting skills, timely and appropriate family medical care, and increased family self-sufficiency. HFI will soon enter into a review of over 12 years of experience with families who have participated in this program that will shed more light on the benefits of home visitation.
Responsible fatherhood is an oft-missing component essential to healthy family growth. Integrating fathering activities into our programs improves dads' understanding of their vital role in children’s development. It also allows us to view the complex challenges of engaging dads and helping them fulfill their roles as fathers.
Improving pregnancy and birth outcomes is an important component for an eventually healthy child. HFI engages with parents as early as possible in the pregnancy, providing quality pre- and post-natal education in group settings. We also offer individual support during the pregnancy, birth and postpartum experience.