Healthy Beginnings

Healthy Beginnings is a maternal and child health program that supports pregnant people, new parents, and babies up to 12 months old living in suburban Cook County. 
Our goal is simple: help parents and babies stay healthy and safe. 

We do this through home visits, education, support, and connections to community resources. Our caring public health nurses provide one‑on‑one help before, during, and after pregnancy so every family can have a strong, healthy start. 

Who We Serve?

Healthy Beginnings is for:

• Families living in suburban Cook County
• Anyone who is pregnant
• Anyone who recently gave birth
• Babies up to 12 months old
• Anyone who wants home visits, guidance or help finding health and social services
• Anyone with a high-risk pregnancy who needs extra support

How to Enroll

Enrolling in Healthy Beginnings is free and easy. Referral form

1. Submit a Referral

You can be referred by:

• Yourself
• A healthcare provider
• A community agency
• A social worker or case manager

2. A Nurse Will Contact You

A Public Health Nurse will reach out to:

• Learn about your needs
• Explain our program services
• Schedule your first home visit

3. Begin Home Visits

Your nurse will work with you and your baby based on your health, development, and family needs. All services are free for suburban Cook County residents.

Interested in our Services?

If you would like to be contacted by our staff to learn more about our maternal and child health programs and services, please complete our Referral Form.

Why Maternal and Child Health Matters

A healthy pregnancy and a healthy first year of life set the foundation for lifelong well-being. By supporting families early, we help:  

• Reduce the risk of complications for parents and babies
• Support healthy child development 
• Strengthen families and communities

Program Benefits

Home-Based Nursing Support

• Help managing high-risk pregnancies
• Regular check-ups and screenings
• Education during and after birth
• Breastfeeding and infant feeding support
• Safe sleep and injury prevention tips
• Family planning information
• Help with quitting smoking

Babies Health and Development

• Newborn health assessments
• Growth and developmental checks
• Support with Early Intervention programs
• Guidance on bonding, learning, and daily routines
• Encouragement for staying up to date on vaccines
• Nutrition and feeding information

High-Risk Pregnancy Care

• Personalized care plans
• Communication with your doctors
• Help navigating medical and community resources

Referrals to Essential Services

We can connect you with:

• Health Insurance programs
• Mental health services
• Doula programs
• Medical specialists
• Housing, food, and transportation help
• Parenting programs

Comprehensive Support Services

• Support for LGBTQIA+ parents
• Nurse home visits and education from community health promoters
• Help enrolling in WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) program
• Referrals to social and specialized services

Contact Us

Email us at  [email protected]   if you have questions or need support.
Website: CookCountyHealthyBeginnings.org

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Cook County Health Community Health Centers   provide high-quality care across Cook County.

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