Who Could Benefit?

Early childhood home visiting provides support and connections that can benefit all pregnant and parenting families. Nationally, we estimate the number of pregnant women and families who are potential beneficiaries, including all pregnant women and families with children under 6 years old and not yet in kindergarten.

16,752,200
pregnant women and families could potentially benefit from home visiting

Of the potential beneficiaries (Source: Estimates of potential beneficiaries come from the [American Community Survey (2020–2024)](https://usa.ipums.org/usa/index.shtml). The 2020-2024 American Community Survey is the most recent 5-year file available at the time of analysis. The estimate of pregnant women is based on mothers with infants, with certain adjustments. See the [methodology section](https://nhvrc.org/yearbook/2026-yearbook/methodology/) for more information on methods.)Go to footnote #>1—

  • 15.5 million are families with young children
  • 1.2 million are pregnant women without young children

Many families have more than one child who could benefit from home visiting.

21,774,500
children could potentially benefit from home visiting

Potential children who could benefit include—

3,458,600
infants
7,434,600
toddlers
10,881,300
preschoolers

Home visiting has great potential to improve the lives of all young children and families, yet limited resources restrict the number who receive services. As a result, most home visiting services are geared toward particular populations, including young expectant caregivers, young and first-time caregivers, families with infants, and families with insufficient incomes.

Other priority groups may include—

  • Single mothers
  • Caregivers with limited education
  • Families with a history of substance use or child maltreatment
  • Children with developmental delays

How Many Families and Children Fall Within the Priority Populations?

It is not possible to present data on some of these families in our estimates using the American Community Survey, which does not collect data on substance use, child maltreatment, or developmental delays. To account for this reality, the 2026 Home Visiting Yearbook contains estimates of five potential priority populations captured by the American Community Survey.

Supporting Families Experiencing Homelessness

When families with young children experience homelessness, it can shape early development in lasting ways. High mobility, limited transportation, and other barriers often keep families from accessing the very programs designed to help. Home visiting offers a critical access point for families facing homelessness. Because home visitors meet with families regularly in their homes or temporary living environments, they are well positioned connect families to resources and support them in navigating periods of instability.

“When home visitors prioritize flexible service delivery for families experiencing homelessness, they are not only meeting clients’ needs in the moment, but also supporting the sustained development and well-being of families beyond their experience of homelessness.” – Nia Parillo-Kell, LCSW, Chief Program Officer of Youth Service Bureau of St. Joseph County