Rutgers University–Camden Research Evaluates Family Connects NJ Universal Post-Partum Home Visiting Program

Family Connects NJ, New Jersey’s universal nurse home visitation program, has reached a diverse population of more than 3,600 families from June 2024 through May 2025, according to Rutgers Health researchers. The findings are detailed in the Rutgers School of Public Health’s report, “Tracking the Progress of Family Connects NJ: Advancing Maternal and Child Health and Equity Across New Jersey.”

This early-stage implementation analysis, part of a broader evaluation of Nurture NJ led by Professor Leslie M. Kantor, Chair of the Department of Urban-Global Public Health at the Rutgers School of Public Health, provides critical insights into the program’s reach and impact. The research highlights how universal models can effectively serve diverse populations while addressing significant health concerns.

Evaluating the Early Implementation of Family Connects NJ

Previous research provides evidence that universal nurse home visitation is linked to improved maternal and infant health outcomes, including breastfeeding initiation and increased attendance at postpartum visits. Through this program, we have reached thousands of families, with 17% of in-home nurse visits resulting in a referral for a significant infant or maternal health concern that could not wait until the family’s regular medical care appointment.

Rutgers’ new analysis of state-level data revealed that 80% of initial nurse visits were completed within three weeks of birth, exceeding The Family Connects International benchmark of completing at least 70% of home visits within 21 days. The evaluation team said this outcome reflects the program’s goal of fostering early engagement during the critical postpartum period.

“Implementing statewide programs is complicated and the evaluation shows that New Jersey is making real progress toward ensuring that all New Jersey families have access to this evidence-based model,” Kantor said.

Universal Access and Equity in Maternal Health

In 2021, New Jersey passed landmark legislation and became the second state in the nation to guarantee universal nurse home visits to all families welcoming a new baby. Through Family Connects NJ, birth, adoptive and kinship caregivers receive a personalized 90- to 150-minute home visit by a specially trained nurse.

During the visit, the nurse comprehensively assesses newborns and parents; provides education on topics such as feeding, safe sleep and postpartum recovery; and connects families with additional resources. To prepare for the rollout, New Jersey partnered with hospitals to make it easier for families to enroll and strengthened its community support network by hiring community alignment specialists in all 21 counties.

According to the New Jersey Department of Children and Families, the state has served more than 8,000 families since the launch of the program in January 2024.

Reaching Diverse and Marginalized Populations

An advantage of universal programs like Family Connects NJ over income-restricted models is that they promote equity and inclusivity and carry less stigma because every family has access to support. We see this in Family Connects NJ’s broad reach across demographic categories, including age, race, ethnicity, language and socioeconomic status, while strongly engaging families from marginalized and economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

The Rutgers evaluation team found that Family Connects NJ plays a crucial role in linking New Jersey families to additional support services. The analysis revealed that 50% of visited families were referred to other programs or services, including parenting education programs and material supports such as the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Additionally, Rutgers Health researchers found 16% of families received referrals for maternal health, infant health, or caregiver well-being, such as elevated blood pressure, signs of postpartum infection and caregiver mental health.

Moreover, the analysis suggests Family Connects NJ reaches a broad and diverse population, including those from historically marginalized and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Compared with New Jersey’s birthing population, program participants were more likely to identify as Hispanic or Black and to have Medicaid insurance coverage. Additionally, 37% of participating families spoke Spanish at home and another 12% spoke one of more than 20 different non-English languages.

Program Impact and Future Recommendations

“Family Connects NJ is the nation’s most robust nurse home visitation program, and it is one of New Jersey’s most powerful tools to ensure every new parent has access to the care and support needed in the early days of parenthood,” said New Jersey First Lady Tammy Murphy. “Through this program, we have reached thousands of families, with 17% of in-home nurse visits resulting in a referral for a significant infant or maternal health concern that could not wait until the family’s regular medical care appointment. I am thrilled that Family Connects NJ is continuing to expand, and I encourage all new parents to take advantage of this incredible resource.”

According to researchers, Family Connects NJ’s strong early performance indicates that, as the program rolls out, it can sustain its achievements and grow its impacts. To ensure this continued success, the evaluation team recommends strategically expanding the state’s sustainable home visiting workforce, analyzing program fidelity and conducting ongoing evaluation to guide future investments.

To learn more and schedule a nurse visit, families can visit FamilyConnectsNJ.org.

Connecting Research to Practice

The work of the Rutgers School of Public Health exemplifies how academic research can directly inform and improve public health policy and practice. By evaluating the implementation of Family Connects NJ, researchers provide the evidence base needed to refine and expand effective programs that support maternal and child health across the state.

This research is part of a larger body of work at Rutgers University–Camden and across the university system that addresses critical community health challenges. The findings underscore the importance of data-driven approaches to health equity and the value of universal programs in reducing barriers to care.

For professionals and students interested in public health, maternal health, or program evaluation, the evaluation of Family Connects NJ offers a practical case study in implementing and assessing large-scale health initiatives. The program’s focus on early intervention, comprehensive assessment, and resource connection provides a model for other states and regions to consider.

Key Takeaways for Public Health Professionals

• Universal models can effectively reach diverse populations: Family Connects NJ demonstrates that removing income-based eligibility criteria can increase participation among marginalized groups while reducing stigma.
• Early engagement is critical: Completing 80% of visits within three weeks of birth shows the importance of timely intervention during the postpartum period.
• Referral networks are essential: With 50% of families referred to additional services, the program highlights the need for integrated community support systems.
• Continuous evaluation guides improvement: Ongoing assessment, as conducted by Rutgers researchers, is vital for sustaining program impact and informing policy decisions.

The evaluation of Family Connects NJ provides a roadmap for how research institutions can partner with state agencies to advance public health goals. By combining rigorous analysis with practical implementation, this collaboration serves as a model for addressing complex health challenges through evidence-based solutions.

As New Jersey continues to expand Family Connects NJ, the insights from Rutgers Health researchers will be instrumental in ensuring the program meets its objectives and delivers meaningful support to families across the state.

Conclusion

The early results from Family Connects NJ are promising, showing strong reach and significant health referrals across a diverse population. The program’s universal approach, combined with strategic community partnerships and ongoing evaluation, positions it as a leading example of how to advance maternal and child health equity.

Rutgers University’s research provides the evidence needed to support and refine this initiative, demonstrating the critical role of academic institutions in shaping effective public health policy. For families, policymakers, and public health professionals, Family Connects NJ represents a tangible step toward ensuring every new parent has access to the support they need during the critical postpartum period.

To learn more about the program and its impact, visit FamilyConnectsNJ.org or explore the full report from the Rutgers School of Public Health.