Families First (formerly Healthy Families) helps prevent child abuse and neglect in the Austin Community of Chicago. Our goal is to help people overcome the barriers that are keeping them from loving and nurturing their children. These barriers can include stress, lack of knowledge, substance abuse, domestic violence and social isolation, among others.

Home visits are the centerpiece of our program. Our staff provides free visits to families in the community, beginning when mom is pregnant and continuing through the child’s fifth year. During these visits, they monitor the child’s development and also teach parents how to:

• Interact positively with their child
• Improve their support systems
• Alleviate stress
• Develop problem-solving skills.
• And eat healthily

When clients need additional social services, we connect them with local organizations, such as community job training programs, medical clinics, counseling centers, drug treatment programs and housing programs. Our bimonthly support group gives parents the opportunity to share their challenges with one another, provide mutual support and socialize.

Our office is located at:
4839 W. Irving Park Road
Chicago, IL 60641
Phone: (773) 355-5575