The Calgary Healthy Families Program (CHFP) uses a structured approach (screening, assessment and intervention) for service delivery which ensures that families receive consistent service throughout the Calgary service area. Further, the Calgary Healthy Families Collaborative service delivery model is based on a research and evaluation framework. Service evaluation is completed on an ongoing basis, and through the integration of specific research studies, which integrate qualitative and quantitative methodologies. The evaluation results inform ongoing Program revision and the development of best practices for home visitation.

 Our Mandate and Focus

The focus of the CHFP is to provide long-term home visitation support to newborns and their families who are known to be living in challenging circumstances. Services can be given to families until the youngest reaches five years of age providing there is a continued reason for service. The intent of home visitation is to reduce risk factors and increase protective factors thereby increasing a family’s capacity to provide a safe and nurturing environment for their children.

Our Philosophical Foundation

The CHFP provides home visitation services based on the following core set of essential features:

• Early intervention
• Strength based orientation
• Family centered and relationship focused
• Culturally competent and sensitive orientation
• Individually focused service intervention identifying needs, strengths, well defined goals and required resources
• High level of home visitor knowledge and skills

Primary Goals of the Healthy Families Program

Home visitation activities in Calgary for families focus on achieving the following primary goals:

• Parents and caregivers provide a nurturing and safe environment for their children
• Child development is optimal
• Families identified needs are resolved
• Parents and caregivers are knowledgeable of and are connected with community supports.