Programs & Services
Welcome Family (MA)
Free, 90-minute nurse consultation for mothers of newborns.
What is Welcome Family?
Meeting Street’s Welcome Family New Bedford program offers a free nurse home visit and follow-up support calls to all mothers with newborns living in New Bedford, MA. We assess mother and newborn health and well-being and provide education, support, and referrals to services, as needed.
What you can expect from the Welcome Family Program
During your 90-minute visit, the nurse will answer your questions, provide a health check for you and your newborn, and provide information and advice about:
- Calming your newborn
- Bathing, changing and taking care of your newborn
- Eating well to keep you and your newborn healthy
- Breastfeeding
- Ensuring that your home is safe
The nurse will ask questions to make sure you are doing okay. These might include:
- Are you getting enough sleep?
- Do you have the support you need from family and friends?
- Are you eating well?
- Are you feeling upset or depressed?
Mom will also receive a free Welcome Family bag that includes a tote bag, rattle, book and other gifts for you and your baby.
The nurse or another person from the Welcome Family program will call you 2-3 weeks after your visit to check back in and make sure you have been able to connect with the resources and supports you need.
The Welcome Family visit, follow-up call and support are all provided at no cost to you.
Information Request Form
As a Welcome Family nurse, I meet new mothers during some of the most vulnerable weeks of their lives. While many are overjoyed with their new baby, they are also navigating anxiety, hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and sometimes a lack of support. Many tell me they feel guilty for struggling, saying, “I just had a baby. I should be happy.”
-Lisa, RN,CEIM,CLC
During my one-time visit, I provide a safe, judgment-free space where mothers can share their feelings and concerns. Often, what they need most is reassurance, validation, and someone to listen. I assess their well-being, connect them with resources, and ensure they have support in place.
