HIPPY Program

Download Welcome Packet (PDF)

History of HIPPY:

In 1969, HIPPY was developed in Israel, at the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) Research Institute for Innovation in Education at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem.

The HIPPY program came to the United States in 1984.The first Florida program began in Miami in 1985. By 2018, there were 16 HIPPY sites serving 20 Florida counties with 16 Coordinators and 96 Home Visitors. More than 1,934 children from approximately 1,733 families were served that year.

The Brevard/Orange HIPPY program began in 2018 and serves 60 families between the two counties. Moving forward into the 2021-2022 fiscal year, the Brevard/Orange HIPPY continues to grow and will have the opportunity to serve 75 families.

Eligibility:

General eligibility is dependent on:

• Child receives Medicaid
• Family meets the Income Guidelines
• Parent/ Education Level (less than high school diploma or GED)
• Minor of Incarcerated Parent or Parent in State Custody
• Minor receiving out-of-home care (Foster or relative care placements)
• Minor attending designated Title I elementary school or preschool
• Resides within a designated Community Redevelopment Area (CRA)
• A child enrolled at a public or private childcare center or school with a readiness rate of less than 60 or no school readiness rate