State Senator Carla Nelson (R-Rochester) today congratulated Olmsted County Public Health Services (OCPHS) and Cradle 2 Career on receiving the prestigious 2024 Betty Hubbard Maternal and Child Health Leadership Award at the community level. The award, given by the Minnesota Department of Health, recognizes OCPHS’s Family Home Visiting program and Cradle 2 Career for their exceptional commitment to improving maternal and child health outcomes in Olmsted County.

“Olmsted County Public Health and Cradle 2 Career have truly led the way in fostering better outcomes for mothers and children in our community,” Senator Nelson said. “The hard work of their teams, along with the invaluable insights from families in challenging situations, has made an inspiring difference. This award celebrates the impact of their dedicated, collaborative efforts, and I couldn’t be prouder of the progress they have achieved.”

Senator Nelson, who authored the original Cradle 2 Career legislation, highlighted the program’s critical role in removing barriers to prenatal care and supporting the unique needs of each family. “I am honored to have championed the original legislation that laid the groundwork for Rochester’s Cradle 2 Career. This program is a fantastic example of the power of community-centered solutions that directly address real challenges and families in need.”

The partnership between OCPHS and Cradle 2 Career has been instrumental in identifying and addressing the barriers to prenatal care within Olmsted County, particularly among the county’s most vulnerable populations. Through an evidence-based approach and active collaboration with the community, the program has focused on overcoming obstacles such as transportation, a lack of trust in providers, and access to support services. Their commitment to listening and responding to the voices of affected families has led to innovative solutions that promote health and equity.

“Cradle 2 Career has truly been a beacon of hope for Rochester families, delivering much-needed support to families and young learners, especially during these challenging times,” Senator Nelson said.