Wisconsin Wayfinder Celebrates First Anniversary of Supporting Families
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) marks a significant milestone with the first anniversary of the Wisconsin Wayfinder: Children’s Resource Network. This initiative has been instrumental in supporting families of children with delays, disabilities, special health care needs, or mental health conditions by connecting them to vital resources and support systems. Launched in November 2023, the Wisconsin Wayfinder has notably assisted the families of over 2,200 children and nearly 670 providers throughout the state, aiding them in navigating intricate health care landscapes to secure essential services.
“Families across Wisconsin tell us how important it is to have someone there for them when they need it most,” expressed Wisconsin Medicaid Director Bill Hanna. “Through Wisconsin Wayfinder, we are providing that support, and we have seen firsthand the difference it has made in the lives of those we serve.”
Wisconsin Wayfinder enhances accessibility for families by offering direct access to knowledgeable children’s resource guides. “Our goal is to get families the right help and the right care at the right time. Wisconsin Wayfinder unites children’s resource centers across the state, ensuring families have a trusted network to turn to,” stated Paula Tran, State Health Officer and Division of Public Health Administrator. “Our resource guides bring both compassion and expertise, and they truly understand what a family needs to navigate critical moments in their children’s lives.”
Notable Achievements in the First Year
- More than 2,200 families and nearly 670 providers and professionals have received essential resources through Wisconsin Wayfinder.
- The initiative’s user-friendly website recorded over 755,000 visits.
- Children’s resource guides engaged in discussions on over 6,000 topics with concerned families and facilitated nearly 3,900 referrals.
In celebration of this significant achievement, DHS has released a highlight reel, showcasing impactful stories and key accomplishments from the program’s inaugural year.
“Through Wisconsin Wayfinder, families are gaining the support and guidance they need to navigate critical moments in their children’s lives,” remarked Deb Rathermel, Director of the DHS Bureau of Children Services. “We are excited to continue building on this success and providing this essential lifeline for families across Wisconsin.”
About Wisconsin Wayfinder
Funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), Wisconsin Wayfinder underscores the DHS’s commitment to supporting children with special health care needs across the state. For more information about the program, visit the Wisconsin Wayfinder website. Families can also contact 877-WiscWay (877-947-2929) to speak directly with a children’s resource guide.
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