Shawnee county hires nurse for program that aids low-income, first-time mothers

The Shawnee County Health Department announced Monday it had hired a registered nurse, Felicia Turk, for its Nurse-Family Partnership program, a national effort that provides assistance free of charge to low-income, first-time mothers who qualify. The program was created in 1977. It has the capacity to accommodate up to 92 young mothers in the Shawnee County community, the release said.

NFP helps the expectant mother both with prenatal care and becoming economically self-sufficient, Monday’s news release said.

“NFP helps women in poverty who are pregnant with their first child become the best moms they can be,” it said. “Each expectant woman connects with her own personal nurse who works alongside her throughout her pregnancy until her child’s second birthday to help her accomplish her goals and give her child a healthier start.”