U.S. Reps. Darin LaHood (R-IL) and Rudy Yakym (R-IN) recently introduced a resolution to designate April 21 through April 25 as National Home Visiting Week.
“Home visiting programs play a critical role in meaningful outcomes for babies and new parents,” said Rep. LaHood, who on April 17 sponsored House Resolution 335 alongside three original cosponsors, including Rep. Yakym and U.S. Rep. Danny Davis (D-IL).
If enacted, the resolution would highlight the important role the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) programs have in support of childhood development, strengthening family relationships, and reducing the risk of child abuse and neglect.
“Built on decades of research, the [MIECHV] Program serves as a national model for how social programs should operate, focusing on results,” Rep. LaHood said, noting that in 2023, more than 16,400 families benefited from evidence-based home visits in Illinois.
“I am proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution, alongside my colleagues, to recognize the value of these programs and to honor the dedicated work of home visitors who help families thrive,” he added.
Evidence-based home visiting programs were implemented across all 50 states, U.S. territories, and indigenous communities in 2023, serving more than 280,000 families and conducting more than 2.8 million home visits, according to the text of the resolution.
“I’m honored to cosponsor the home visiting resolution, which shines a spotlight on the critical role these programs play in nurturing our youngest children and supporting new mothers,” said Rep. Yakym, who added that his predecessor, former U.S. Rep. Jackie Walorski (R-IN) “was a tireless champion” of the MIECHV Program and led the bipartisan effort to secure its reauthorization before her death in 2022.
“Jackie often reminded us that ‘case managers are first responders,’ and this resolution celebrates their unwavering dedication and the transformative impact they have on families across America,” Rep. Yakym said.