Wellesley Board of Health launches Parent and Newborn Support Services program

WELLESLEY -- January 22, 2026, Wellesley Board of Health debuts Parent and Newborn Support Services program after 18-month regional buildout. Public Health Nurse Amanda Stone presented the launch at the Jan. 22 meeting, telling the board she is taking a "tiered approach" focused on trust and partnerships rather than call volume. Health Director Lenny Izzo said the framework was designed so neighboring towns, Milton is already in discussions, can adopt it with minimal changes. Vice Chair Linda Oliver Grape pressed on outreach to Boston-area hospitals where many Wellesley residents deliver, and Newton-Wellesley Hospital's Lauren Lele said the hospital is linking the program to its OB, pediatric and social work teams. A pilot reflective-practice training filled all 10 seats with a regional waitlist. The board also voted 3-0 to approve Jan. 8 minutes.