May 7, 2026
For many first-time parents, the journey of pregnancy comes with many important questions. In El Paso County, a dedicated team of public health professionals is ensuring parents don’t have to come up with all the answers on their own.
The El Paso County Public Health Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP) pairs first-time parents with registered nurses who provide personalized home visits. These visits begin early in pregnancy and continue until the child’s second birthday, offering continuous support and education during the most critical years of development.
A Foundation for Success
NFP is built on a national, evidence-based model designed to improve pregnancy outcomes, child health, and the economic self-sufficiency of families. By meeting parents in their own homes, nurses can provide tailored support that goes far beyond basic medical checkups.
Key services provided by the program include:
- Healthy Pregnancy Guidance: Nurses assist with nutrition, smoking cessation, and preparing for childbirth.
- Parenting Skills: New parents learn about infant brain development, safe sleep practices, and emotional bonding.
- Economic Self-Sufficiency: Nurses help parents set goals for their future, whether that involves finishing school or finding stable employment.
- Community Referrals: The program connects families with vital resources such as Women, Infants and Children (WIC), health care providers, and housing assistance.
Real Impact, Real Families
The impact of the program in El Paso County is measured in more than just statistics; it is seen in the milestones of local families. According to recent data from the national Nurse-Family Partnership office, the program has been shown to reduce hypertension in mothers and improve childhood immunization rates.
Local graduates of the program often describe their assigned nurses as more than just health care providers; they are mentors and advocates.
How to Join
The program is free for first-time parents who meet income requirements (typically those eligible for Medicaid or WIC). Residents in El Paso and Teller counties can self-refer or be referred to by a health care provider.
For those interested in enrolling or learning more, El Paso County Public Health encourages families to visit the El Paso County Public Health NFP website.
Through the dedication of these nurses, El Paso County proves that when you support parents, you change the life of a child forever.