The Nurse-Family Partnership program empowers young moms to transform their lives and create better futures for themselves and their babies. Specially educated nurses visit first-time moms, starting early pregnancy, continuing until the child’s second birthday. Moms get the care and support they need to have healthy pregnancies. Now Montefiore is looking to dismantle the program in 2023. Sign the petition calling on Montefiore CEO Dr. Ozuah to continue this vital service for the Bronx!

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Dear Dr. Philip O. Ozuah:

I am a concerned community member of The Bronx, Yonkers and New York City and I am writing to express my unwavering support for the Nurse Family Partnership (NFP) program and its essential role in the Bronx and Yonkers. The NFP program is a vital resource that provides invaluable support to at-risk first-time mothers in our community, and I call on you to continue its operation.

The NFP program has been a beacon of hope and assistance for many mothers in the community, particularly those from underserved backgrounds. It has been instrumental in addressing the unique challenges faced by black and brown mothers during pregnancy and the early stages of parenthood. The program's focus on maternal and child health, educational attainment, and economic self-sufficiency has led to numerous benefits that are vital the families in the Bronx and Yonkers.

Here are some of the reasons why the Nurse Family Partnership program must continue:

1. Improved Maternal and Child Health: The NFP program has consistently shown positive outcomes in reducing premature births, low birth weights, and infant mortality rates among participating mothers. This directly contributes to the well-being of the children in the Bronx and Yonkers.

2. Educational Empowerment: By providing educational support and guidance, the NFP program helps mothers pursue higher education, thus breaking the cycle of poverty and improving the prospects of both mothers and their children.

3. Economic Self-Sufficiency: The NFP program equips mothers with the skills and resources they need to gain financial independence, ultimately benefitting not only our mothers but the entire community.

4. Racial Disparities: The NFP program has been crucial in addressing racial disparities in maternal and child health outcomes, which is a pressing issue in the community.

Discontinuing this program would be a grave disservice to the Bronx and Yonkers, particularly to our black and brown mothers who rely on its support. It would exacerbate existing disparities and leave many vulnerable mothers and their children without access to the vital services provided by the NFP program.

I along with many other concerned community members call on you to continue the Nurse-Family Partnership program!