Kentucky’s H.A.N.D.S. supports families as they build healthy, safe environments for the optimal growth and development of children. Every child is wanted and cared for in a stimulating and nurturing environment.
Heath Access Nurturing Development Services providing support to parents, right from the start, right in their own homes.
Participation in the program is voluntary. Community outreach efforts are made to all pregnant women. Pregnant women are screened, as early in pregnancy as feasible, using a Universal Screening Tool for indicated “stress factors.” Women who screen positive have a family assessment completed using a Standardized Assessment Tool. Women who have a negative screen are advised of available parenting resources, if interested. Services are provided by protocol home visits; intensity may be increased/decreased based on need. Services focus on supporting the family, family-child interaction, child development and personal responsibility. Services are provided in a family-centered, culturally sensitive manner. Each family is assisted in securing a medical provider and receives preventive health education. Services are provided by trained and skilled staff who assists families in making decisions regarding their children. Services are available for the family until the child is two years of age. Plans are developed with the family to transition out of the program.
