
A Community with a Plan
The Children's Services Council has since its inception focused human and financial resources on primary prevention and early intervention. The earlier we intercede, the more likely we are to succeed in preventing issues which can affect a child or family's abilities to thrive. So, with the development of the Healthy Beginnings System, the Children’s Services Council coordinates local tax dollars with federal, state and local funding to bring together one community plan for maternal child health issues.
Our Vision
All children are born healthy and have the equal opportunity for positive physical, social and emotional development.
Our Mission
The mission of the Healthy Beginnings Division is to build a collaborative and an ever-advancing Maternal Child Health support system, promoting the heath and wellness of our children, families and community.
Prenatal Care for Every Woman
The Children's Services Council recognizes that every woman has the right to prenatal care. So in Palm Beach County, we’ve designed a system of care built on the Healthy Start initiative. That means we promote universal screening of women and their babies before and after birth. And we also offer coordinated services to families experiencing medical, psychological, social and environmental risks that negatively impact pregnancy and birth outcomes.
Recognizing Racial Disparities in Birth Outcomes
Also, through our Healthy Families initiative, we take into account – and aggressively address – the racial disparities that impact birth outcomes and can, devastatingly, lead to infant death.
An Array of Available Services
Community Agencies provide services in the Healthy Beginnings System. These agencies provide a range of services – from smoking cessation and breastfeeding support to outreach to disenfranchised pregnant woman and intensive counseling for families struggling with substance abuse or domestic violence. Services are voluntary, free and available to any family deemed at risk – regardless of income.