When a teen 17 years old or younger delivers a baby, the hospital must file a report with the state within 3 days. The state then sends these reports on to the county public health and social services agencies. They do this so that the county agencies can provide assistance to these young parents. Pregnant teens on public assistance must wok with both social services and financial services, however, public health services are optional.
Dakota County has established a Minor Parent Team to assist pregnant and parenting teens. The team consists of a Social Worker, a Financial Worker, and a Public Health Nurse.
What kind of help do they provide?
Social Services:
- Help to find housing and transportation
- Educational planning and career development
- Assistance with locating day care
- Support groups
Financial Services:
- Financial and medical assistance
- Help is establishing parentage
Public Health Services:
- Help in preparing for labor and delivery
- Education on infant care and growth and development
- Immunizations and well child care
- Referral to the WIC program
For additional information on services available, contact Dakota County Social Services at 952-891-7459 or Dakota County Public Health at 651-554-6115.