Strong Starts at Ballad Health
Free resources, classes & support for families with young children
At Ballad Health, we believe that every child deserves a strong start in life, and we understand that the early years of a child's life are a critical foundation for their future success. That's why we're here to support caregivers like you in providing the best possible start for your child, from newborn to 5 years of age. Our Strong Starts program is dedicated to linking caregivers with essential resources and services to ensure your family thrives.
How Strong Starts works
Our enrolled caregivers are paired with a community health navigator who will connect them with resources, provide social support and work with them to create goals for themselves and their families. Families may enroll in the program at any point.
Initial visit: You visit a clinic or hospital and they confirm your pregnancy.
Screening: Our staff screens you for specific pregnancy-related needs and offers free enrollment to the Strong Starts program.
Navigation: We'll pair you with a community health navigator, who will provide you direct support to appropriate services and programs. They can also help you ask questions and provide support during doctor visits.
Kindergarten readiness: Our navigation services are available to caregivers of children from newborn to 5 years of age. As your child grows, we focus on social and emotional Kindergarten readiness.
Resources designed for families
We're committed to providing the resources, support and guidance needed to build a brighter future for your family.
Prenatal, lactation and family classes
You can view a calendar of our upcoming events and RSVP on our events page. Classes are offered throughout our service area, including Johnson City, Bristol, Kingsport, Marion, Abingdon, Greeneville, Mountain City, Gate City, Erwin and more.
Here are some examples of the classes we offer:
- Family playtime – Playtime is a fundamental part of childhood. We offer opportunities for family playtime and activities that promote bonding and development. Free books are available per family while supplies last.
- Prenatal support groups – This class is designed to help prepare expectant families for their upcoming delivery. We have information about safe sleep habits for your baby, child passenger safety and tips for bonding with your baby. We offer incentives to attend class, including a free pack of diapers at every class while supplies last.
- Child passenger safety – A Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician can ensure your child's car seat is correctly installed and secure.
In addition to the resources you'll learn in class, you will also have the opportunity to connect with other families. All of our classes include a free gift, while supplies last.
Help with childcare, food, housing and more
- Childcare – We help you find reliable and affordable childcare options, giving you peace of mind while you work or pursue other essential activities.
- Food assistance – We understand the importance of proper nutrition for your child's growth. Our program can guide you to food assistance resources in your community.
- Government assistance programs – If you're eligible for government assistance, we'll assist you in accessing these vital resources.
- Housing insecurity – Stable housing is essential for a thriving family. We can provide support and resources to address housing challenges and connect you with available community resources.
- Early Intervention – Our team can connect you with early intervention services that can make a significant difference in your child's development.
Sign up today
We're here to support you with resources to help your child thrive, learn and grow. Sign up for the Strong Starts program today and we'll get you connected.
To speak to a Strong Starts representative, email strongstarts@balladhealth.org or call (423) 431‑4844.