November 2025 Update

Nurture KC’s involvement with the Paid Leave for All Kansans Coalition began one year ago with our hope that parents could secure paid leave during the critical first twelve weeks of a baby’s life. There are 14 states that have passed comprehensive paid family and medical leave, (PFML) which encompasses parental leave, along with paid leave for a serious health condition, to care for elderly family and for veterans deploying or returning from service. Over the past year, we have had the opportunity to testify at the Kansas statehouse on the importance of this family-first policy that could positively impact the life of every Kansan.

Just in the last year, we have seen momentum behind paid leave across the country. Forty states now provide paid parental leave to state employees. Nearly every state has introduced legislation that would initiate some form of paid family leave. The reasons for bipartisan support are clear. Paid leave helps new parents bond with their newborn. Parents are more likely to breastfeed, get their baby to health appointments and watch for developmental milestones. Not forcing parents to choose between their livelihood and time with a baby eases stress and improves mental health.

While we will continue our education and advocacy for this policy during the 2026 legislative session, there is another opportunity for the public to gather information on PFML. Paid Leave for All Kansans is hosting a series of town hall meetings in November to bring together community members, advocates and local leaders to explore how this policy could impact working Kansas families. There is a town hall in Leawood at the Leawood Pioneer Library on Saturday, November 22 from 3pm – 4pm. This public event will include a conversation with panelists and an opportunity to ask questions. For more information and to RSVP, visit paidleaveks.org.

Adoption of PFML would be a seismic change for Kansas families and a way to put into action a benefit that would have universal impact on our lives.

Tracy Russell

Chief Executive Officer, Nurture KC

Flu Clinics a Success: Over 500 Vaccines Provided

This fall, Nurture KC partnered with Walgreens to host free flu and COVID-19 vaccine clinics at nine locations across the Kansas City metro in both Missouri and Kansas.

We provided more than 500 vaccines to community members, helping protect families and promote health as we head into the winter months.

Thank you to Walgreens, our partners and everyone who joined us in supporting healthier families across Kansas City.

Grant Support Expands Nurture KC’s Impact

Nurture KC is honored to receive a grant from the John W. & Effie E. Speas Memorial Trust, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee.

This continued support helps us give more babies a healthy start and strengthen family health throughout Kansas City. We’re so grateful for this partnership and the lasting impact it makes in our community.

Save the Date: Giving Tuesday is Dec. 2

Giving Tuesday is a time to invest in the health of Kansas City families. Your donation helps Nurture KC reduce infant mortality by connecting moms to early prenatal care, safe sleep education, and doula support. It strengthens family health through access to car seats, diapers, mental health counseling, home visits, and transportation to essential services.

Your support ensures families have what they need to thrive from pregnancy through early childhood. Give today to help Kansas City families thrive.