Chesterton-based Jacob’s Ladder Pediatric Rehab Center, in partnership with HealthLinc, received funding for Strong Beginnings.
The funding comes from the Early Learning Initiative supported by Eli Lilly.
The Strong Beginnings program aims to improve milestone acquisition in newborn to toddler patients. Jacob’s Ladder and HealthLinc will offer regular developmental clinics at well-child checks for patients zero to three. The screenings will help track development, enabling early detection and support to foster a child’s growth.
According to Mariann Frigo, Jacob’s Ladder executive director, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports one in six children are diagnosed with some type of delay.
“The Strong Beginnings screenings are a preventative program to help infants and toddlers stay on track through parent training, sequential screenings and collaborative programs with HealthLinc pediatric specialists,” Frigo said in a press release. “Thanks to a grant through the Early Years Initiative, this three-year program will track and report the success of helping our little ones stay on track.”
The extended visits with pediatricians will include vaccines, developmental milestone screenings, hands-on coaching for milestone activities at home, Food as Medicine, Prescription for Play, lactation and feeding techniques and safe infant positioning.
“At HealthLinc, we believe every child deserves a strong start to a healthy and thriving future,” Melissa Mitchell, HealthLinc CEO, said. “Together with Jacob’s Ladder, we’re creating a foundation for lifelong health and success in our youngest community members.”
Jacob’s Ladder is a nonprofit organization providing therapy and care for children in need. Its pediatric staff members complete over 1,000 therapy visits weekly. Jacob’s Ladder serves Porter, Lake, La Porte, Jasper, Newton, Pulaski and Starke counties.
