Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has proclaimed the week of April 21-25, 2025, as Kansas Home Visiting Week. 

In Harvey County, we have several groups that are considered Home Visitors: Harvey County Parents as Teachers (PAT), Infant Toddler Services of Kansas serving Harvey County, and Healthy Families. These professionals provide vital educational and support services to students and families—often in the unique and personal setting of the family’s home.

“Home visiting professionals empower and work alongside parents to build confidence and resilience. Home Visiting programs are rooted in the understanding that when families are equipped with the knowledge, support and tools to thrive, children can reach their highest potential,” Harvey County PAT coordinator, Brittany Denson said. 

Home visiting services can begin prenatally, and strong, trusting relationships between families and professionals are at the heart of these programs.

In Kansas, there are six main evidence-based home visiting models. These models support healthy birth outcomes, increase family self-sufficiency and help children enter school fully prepared to succeed.

See below for the full language of the proclamation:

 

TO THE PEOPLE OF KANSAS, GREETINGS:

WHEREAS, the early childhood years are the most active period for the developing brain and a stable, secure relationship with a nurturing, caring adult is a key factor in the development of young children; and

WHEREAS, many parents begin the difficult lifetime job of raising a child feeling unprepared for the challenges ahead and children have a better, healthier start when parents have the support and skills needed; and

WHEREAS, home visiting can include a variety of different programs and models, including early childhood home visiting programs and parenting education programs; and

WHEREAS, resources and programs that support parents and caregivers promote healthy development and strengthen family relationships, reducing the risk of abuse and neglect; and

WHEREAS, well-trained professionals implement early childhood home visitation so that all families have the opportunity to access information in ways that respect their unique beliefs, traditions and customs; and

WHEREAS, the State of Kansas urges individuals and organizations across our state to utilize home visiting resources as needed to support the health and well-being of our children and families.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Laura Kelly, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF KANSAS, do hereby proclaim April 21-25, 2025, as Kansas Home Visiting Week in the state of Kansas and I urge all citizens to join in this observation.