The Foundation for the Mid South and state agencies in Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi are working together to ensure that the three states bring nearly $4 million in additional federal funding to Mid South programs focused on improving the well-being of children and families.
 
Through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Maternal, Infant and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program, local programs will provide in-home assistance aimed at teaching families good nutrition, parenting skills and approaches to improve early learning.
 
Along with the United Way of the Greater New Orleans Area and the Bower Foundation in Mississippi, the Foundation for the Mid South wants to ensure that the Mid South receives the maximum allotment of federal funds available.  Each state is receiving an experienced grant writer to assist in the highly competitive application process.
 
“The Foundation for the Mid South views health as an asset that enables people to learn to the best of their abilities and improve their economic situations,” said Senior Program Officer Necole S. Irvin.  “This opportunity meets both goals and will strengthen families and help children succeed in life.”
 
One nationally-recognized model that is proving successful in Louisiana is helping to reduce state spending by providing home services for first-time parents.  Nurse Family Partnership has shown that for every dollar invested, up to $5.70 in government funds can be saved through decreased spending on health care, education and social services. 
 
Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius recently supported the effectiveness of home visitation programs saying, “this initiative will give children a healthier start . . .  [It] builds on impressive research findings and is one more piece of our strategy to invest in prevention and early interventions that pay off.”