First 5 is a transformative initiative that focuses on improving early childhood, community health, and educational outcomes in Midland and Ector counties. The program offers three free, evidence-based home visiting services:
- Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY): Prepares children aged 3 to 5 for kindergarten with 30 weeks of engaging lessons, personal Peer Educator visits, free resources, and group events.
- Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP): Supports first-time pregnant mothers with a personal nurse who provides personalized lessons, health monitoring, and free resources from pregnancy until the baby turns two years old.
- Parents as Teachers (PAT): Supports parents of children aged three and under with home visits from parent educators who provide personalized lessons, free resources, and monthly social events to enhance parenting skills and child development.
Reflecting on this milestone, Mercedes Ojeda, a member of the First 5 team, shared her enthusiasm and gratitude.
"We feel so lucky to have been part of the community for so long and to have partnered with families over the years to achieve their goals," she expressed.
The importance of First 5 to the community cannot be overstated. The program offers parents and families a partner in their journey, providing support and guidance that helps them face challenges confidently.
"Instead of facing challenges alone, or wondering about how to best support their children, they instead gain a peer to walk alongside them and support their family’s unique needs and goals. This is all before they ever reach school, so they have a head start and are more prepared to guide their children through school and life successfully," Ojeda explained.
Over the past decade, First 5 has made a remarkable impact, reaching nearly 4,000 families. This impressive figure underscores the program's extensive reach and the profound difference it has made in the lives of countless parents and children.
Looking ahead, the future of First 5 is filled with promise and potential. The team is committed to continuing their collaboration with community partners to help families access the support they need for a better quality of life.
"We're eager to keep identifying and addressing community needs with innovative solutions," Ojeda said.
As UT Permian Basin's First 5 program celebrates its 10-year anniversary, it stands as a testament to the power of community, collaboration, and commitment. The program's success over the past decade is an inspiration for the future, demonstrating what can be achieved when families and community partners come together with a shared vision and purpose.
To learn more about First 5 and how you can become involved, contact our Department of Community and Family Health at first5@utpb.edu or (432) 552-4025.
