The Nurture Program

The Nurture Program at JFS Rochester is a free, peer support program for parents with babies in the Rochester area, most often taking place in the home. Welcoming a baby is a major life transition. Many parents find themselves tired, stretched thin, and unsure where to turn for extra support. Nurture offers a caring, consistent presence during a baby’s first year of life. A trained volunteer is matched with each family to offer practical help, steady companionship, and a listening ear. 

New Parent Support

Parenting peer support programs, like The Nurture Program, are based on national evidence-based models. These models have shown that peer support can improve the mental health and well-being of  parents and their families. Our Nurture Program volunteers are carefully selected and trained to provide non-judgmental emotional support, offer practical assistance, and to share community resources. Support varies based on each unique family’s needs and could include companionship, light housework, fixing a snack, or being there for the baby when a parent naps, all with the goal of helping them feel seen, connected, and cared for during this important time. When visits take place in the home, a parent remains present. This isn’t babysitting, but parents are encouraged to use the time in ways that feel supportive like resting, showering, or taking a break while the volunteer is with their children.

Available to Any Parent

The Nurture Program at JFS is available to all parents in Monroe County, regardless of their socioeconomic status. The program represents the continuum of support JFS Rochester provides through proactive, preventative services informed by principals of infant mental health. We believe that every parent deserves access to support and resources during this critical time in their life and The Nurture Program aims to create a caring community where parents feel supported, connected, and nurtured.