Teen pregnancy is a growing problem in the east and across our state. In Pitt County nearly 30 percent of pregnant teens are carrying their second child.
But a new a program is hoping to bring those numbers down.
Rosie Allen with Prevent Child Abuse North Carolina said, "This program changes generations."
Allen was one of a small handful of people on hand when Pitt County Health Director Dr. John Morrow made the announcement that Nurse-Family Partnership is coming to Pitt County.
The Nurse-Family Partnership is a nationally recognized program where certified nurses will visit with expecting mothers throughout their pregnancy.
"We know where it's been implemented across the county that it has a tremendous impact on lowering the incidents of child abuse and neglect,” said Allen.
Dr. Morrow said there are between five and 600 expecting first time mothers every year in Pitt County. This program will serve 100 qualified mothers when it starts.
Dr. Morrow said, "What we would be looking for is a first time mother, early in the pregnancy before the 28th week that meets the financial qualifications in terms of financially needy for the program and who's willing to participate."
During his speech, Dr. Morrow explained how the program will not only provide the necessary care but also educate expecting mothers.
He said, "These visits empower parents by teaching them skills that promote healthier pregnancies, improved child health and develop and improve self sufficiency."
His hope is this program will help those mothers raise their children in more supportive, healthier homes.
Dr. Tom Irons, who is also with Prevent Child Abuse NC said, "If we could save 100 babies a year in this county and change their lives for the better, my god what an incredible thing that would be."
The program is in eight counties across the state. Dr Morrow hopes to have things up and running in Pitt County by May.
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