WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services has been awarded $6,111,628 to improve the health of Maine mothers and children, according to a news release.

The funding was awarded through the U.S. Health Resources & Services Administration’ (HRSA) Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program, and will support efforts to promote childhood development, reduce child abuse, and enhance child and maternal health.

“This annual federal funding will allow us to continue helping Maine families who need extra support during their child’s earliest years,” said Maine Department of Health and Human Services Commissioner Jeanne Lambrew. “Home visits are an important part of Maine’s broader network of resources, services, education and mentoring for parents to help young children grow up safe and healthy.”

The Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program supports pregnant people and parents with young children who live in communities that face greater risks and barriers to achieving positive maternal and child health outcomes.

Families choose to participate in home visiting programs, and partner with health, social service, and child development professionals to set and achieve goals that improve their health and well-being.

The program aims to improve maternal and child health; prevent child abuse and neglect; reduce crime and domestic violence; increase family education level and earning potential; promote children’s development and readiness to participate in school; and connect families to needed community resources and supports.