WHEREAS, the early childhood years represent the most active period of brain development, and a stable, secure relationship with a nurturing and caring adult is essential to the healthy growth of young children; and

WHEREAS, children experience a stronger and healthier start in life when their parents and caregivers have access to supportive resources, yet many families feel unprepared at the beginning of their parenting journey or are unaware of the services available to them; and

WHEREAS, home visiting includes a wide range of programs and models—such as early childhood home visiting and parenting education programs—that provide families with guidance, information, and support; and

WHEREAS, home visiting programs help parents meet the unique needs of their children, promote healthy development, strengthen family relationships, reduce the risk of abuse and neglect, and advance equity by connecting families furthest from opportunity with essential resources; and

WHEREAS, well-trained professionals deliver early childhood home visiting services in ways that honor and respect each family’s beliefs, traditions, and cultural practices, ensuring that all families can access information in a manner that supports their dignity and strengths; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia encourages individuals, families, and organizations to utilize home visiting resources whenever needed to support the health, wellbeing, and success of young children and their caregivers;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, do hereby recognize April 20-26, 2026, as HOME VISITING WEEK in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.