Goodwill Nurse-Family Partnership® (NFP), a maternal-child program that pairs registered nurses with first-time parents, celebrates its 13th anniversary in 2024. For over a decade, Goodwill NFP nurses have partnered with families to deliver trusted information to achieve a healthy pregnancy, birth and early childhood.

Over the course of the program’s history, Goodwill NFP has served over 8,000 families and expanded its service area several times. The program now operates in 62 Indiana counties and can serve 2,600 families each year.

Alena Winfrey enrolled in the program during her second trimester, trusting Goodwill NFP’s model in one of its newest service regions in southwest Indiana. By working with her nurse, she’s been able to combat the anxieties that accompany a first-time pregnancy.

“It's very helpful to have someone there to help educate, encourage, and uplift you,” said Alena. “I’ve learned so much by asking her questions.”

Education was especially important throughout Alena’s pregnancy. Her nurse provided information on pregnancy, breastfeeding and postpartum. There were concerns that her son would be very small or be diagnosed with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Her nurse helped her understand what the condition was and how it could affect her child.

Once her son was born, Alena worked with her nurse to improve feeding processes and ensure that he was growing well. As a Certified Lactation Consultant, her nurse had the knowledge and expertise to assist with latching and implementing tools such as nipple shields. 

Alena produced more milk than her son needed, and quickly ran out of storage to freeze it for later use. Her nurse assisted her with finding and writing a grant for a deep freezer that could offer more space.

“We wouldn't have access to it without my nurse's assistance with the grant, and it’s wildly helpful,“ said Alena.

Between pregnancy and birth, Alena developed a strong bond with her nurse.

“She gives me the encouragement that I’m meeting my goals and doing a good job as a mom,” said Alena. “She’s like a friend now.”

Having a child is a unique journey; Goodwill NFP nurses walk alongside families who are experiencing this for the first time, offering a helping hand along the way. Alena’s nurse will support her family’s growth and goals until her son turns 2 years old.

“I’m looking forward to all of his firsts,” said Alena. “His first steps, his first solid food–I’m excited for the journey ahead!”

Goodwill NFP has served parents like Alena for over 13 years. To learn more about the program or to refer yourself or someone else, visit goodwillnfp.org.