DES MOINES, Iowa (Aug. 18, 2026) – EveryStep has been awarded a three-year grant from Iowa Health and Human Services to continue providing statewide coordinated intake, referral, and family support services through the Iowa Family Support Network, Children at Home and Nine2Thrive programs.
EveryStep has administered these programs for more than a decade, helping Iowa families navigate services and connect with resources that support children and families from pregnancy through adolescence.
“The first years of life are a critical window for growth and development. Through Iowa Family Support Network, families can quickly connect to early intervention services when concerns arise and receive support with helping their children build the communication, social, emotional and developmental skills that create a strong foundation for future success,” said Laura Lentell, Child and Adolescent Health Director at EveryStep.
The grant supports three statewide programs:
- Nine2Thrive — A pregnancy education and support program that connects pregnant individuals and families with resources such as home visiting programs, health insurance, food assistance and baby supplies.
- Iowa Family Support Network — A coordinated intake and referral system that assists families, child health care providers, and other professionals with information, support and connections to resources for children from birth through age six, including Early ACCESS.
- Children at Home — A program that assists families raising a child with a disability by helping them access services and supports that can help their child remain at home and thrive within their family and community.
“This grant allows Iowans to call one phone number, 1-888-IAKIDS1, or visit the Iowa Family Support Network website and receive support for their families during pregnancy, childhood and the adolescent years,” said Molly Gosselink, Vice President of Community Health at EveryStep. “The system can be complex, and our family navigators are here to help families connect with the support and resources they need.”
In addition to the programs supported through this grant, EveryStep provides more than 20 community health programs and services, as well as home care, hospice, and grief and loss services throughout central and southern Iowa.
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About EveryStep One of Iowa’s oldest and most trusted nonprofits, EveryStep has been providing health care and community services since 1908. We are committed to delivering exceptional care and support when it matters most. From hospice care and home health services to programs for growing families and grief and loss support, our dedicated team walks alongside individuals and families during life’s most challenging times, ensuring compassion, dignity and empathy. To learn more about EveryStep and its more than 20 programs and services, please visit www.everystep.org.
