Evidence shows that home visiting programs can improve birth outcomes and maternal health, improve parenting skills, reduce childhood maltreatment, and improve cognition and social skills in children. In 2023, Wood County Health Department (WCHD) successfully implemented an evidence-based home visiting program called Parents as Teachers (PAT). WCHD has limited grant funding, however, to sustain the program beyond 2027. Multiple sources currently support the program, including a small portion of the program funded under the tax levy in Wood County. Additionally, WCHD has a Wisconsin Partnership Program (WPP) Maternal and Child Health Grant through 2024 and funding from a public health infrastructure grant through November 2027. The current funding will allow WCHD to continue their PAT program at the level it is, but it is not enough to provide a comprehensive program that meets
those with the most need.
The plan for long-term sustainability would include additional grant funding in the short term to expand the program to meet the needs of the community. Four potential funding options that have been found to be most aligned with the goals of PAT are proposed. Long term, increasing PAT funding allocated under the tax levy is critical so grant funding can be decreased over time and a consistent funding stream can be obtained.
UniverCity Contact Info: UniverCityAlliance@wisc.edu