Stories that Move Us

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Economic SecurityPhysical Health & Nutrition
More Than Medicine: How One Pediatric Visit Changed Everything for Ashley and Milo
I walked in with no knowledge of the program and walked out with resources, support and care I didn't even know were available.
Early Development
Small Moments, Double the Joy
Even when they’re good kids, there are still challenging moments. Babies have specific needs, and having two multiplies that.
Early DevelopmentInfant and Early Childhood Mental Health
A Bright Light With Big Needs
Access to more infant and childhood mental health services would have allowed us to evaluate Ryin sooner and address his needs more effectively.
Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health
Where Was My Village?
Parents need to be supported (in order) to provide support. The airlines had it right—put your own oxygen mask on first.
Physical Health & Nutrition
Showing Up for Families, One Call at a Time
She trusted me, and that made all the difference. Now she’s a more confident mom and knows she’s not doing this alone.
Physical Health & Nutrition
Finding Her Way as a First-Time Mom
My daughter was born with a brain bleed but was only covered by my insurance for 60 days. Even without insurance, I still brought her to every appointment. But the bills started piling up.
Child Welfare
A Lifeline in a Confusing System
She supported us with everything my kids needed and supported me at the same time.
Child Welfare
From System-Involved to System Advocate
Safe Babies Court gives parents a real shot—not just at getting their kids back, but at breaking cycles.
Early DevelopmentEarly Learning
Building a Better Future
I joined Early Head Start when my oldest was 18 months old and I had just found out I was expecting again. I was struggling to make ends meet, stressing over how I’d even afford diapers.
Early Learning
A Strong Start for Baby Jeremiah
As a single mom, I constantly worry about being a good parent, making ends meet, and protecting my mental health. It’s a lot to carry.

If you are a member of the media and would like to connect with someone featured in one of our stories, please contact Gina Davis, Associate Director of Media and Public Relations at [email protected].

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Milo in a high chair as a baby
Economic SecurityPhysical Health & Nutrition

More Than Medicine: How One Pediatric Visit Changed Everything for Ashley and Milo

When Ashley’s son was born three months early, HealthySteps became a lifeline—offering emotional support, practical resources, and connection that helped her family move from surviving to thriving.
Details
Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health

What My Baby Taught Me About Hope

Katie reflects on the joys and struggles of raising her baby while highlighting the critical need for community and parental leave policies that support families.
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Early Development

Her First Years, My Everything

Pamela reflects on the joy and growth of her daughter Ainsley while underscoring the vital need for love, presence, and support in the earliest years of life.
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Early DevelopmentInfant and Early Childhood Mental Health

The Village Desiree Deserves

Desiree’s story shows how love, presence, and community support nurture the joy, curiosity, and growth of babies in their earliest years.
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Early DevelopmentInfant and Early Childhood Mental Health

Safe, Loved and Growing

Joshua’s joyful spirit underscores the truth that babies need more than necessities. They need time, love, and supportive policies to truly flourish.
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Early Development

Small Moments, Double the Joy

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Early DevelopmentInfant and Early Childhood Mental Health

A Bright Light With Big Needs

A mom from Ohio shares how earlier access to mental health services could have helped her toddler, Ryin, who has autism, get support and thrive sooner.
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Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health

Where Was My Village?

A new mom from New Hampshire shares how the lack of maternal mental health resources during pregnancy left her isolated and anxious—and why supporting parents is essential to supporting babies.
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Physical Health & Nutrition

Showing Up for Families, One Call at a Time

A HealthySteps Specialist reflects on building trust and providing steady support to a new mom navigating early parenthood and medical needs for her infant daughter.
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Shadonnae and Christina at Strolling Thunder
Physical Health & Nutrition

Finding Her Way as a First-Time Mom

A first-time mom in New Jersey shares how HealthySteps helped her secure insurance and support for her daughter after losing coverage just 60 days after birth.
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Child Welfare

A Lifeline in a Confusing System

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Child Welfare

From System-Involved to System Advocate

Elizabeth Ballou overcame addiction and reunified with her children through the support of Safe Babies Court, showing how early, compassionate intervention can transform lives.
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Early DevelopmentEarly Learning

Building a Better Future

WendyAnn credits Early Head Start with helping her children thrive socially and academically. It's the support that empowered her to return to school and lead change in her community.
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Early Learning

A Strong Start for Baby Jeremiah

Early Head Start helped Charlein's son thrive, while giving her the support she needed to work and parent with confidence.
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Ana at Strolling Thunder
Early LearningEconomic Security

From Service to Support: A Veteran Mom’s Early Head Start Journey

A veteran and mother in Florida found relief and community through Early Head Start, giving her daughter high-quality care and inspiring her to become an advocate for other families.
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