The life of a new parent is often filled with plenty of challenges and uncertainties.

In the city of Binghamton, half of all children are born into poverty.

The Parent and Children Together Program, or PACT, is helping new parents on their journey, by bringing parent educators into homes.

"We're really observers. We're really a mirror for parents and to empower that you do know what you're doing, and you are the most important teacher for your child," said parent educator Andrea Pellicciotti.

The program runs through the Binghamton City School District.

Parent educators provide guidance and screenings for children from birth to kindergarten.

They help identify health programs, teach parenting skills, and prepare children to enter school.

"They taught me stability, they taught me patient. They also taught me how to be a mother, not only to raise them and teach them, but also how to be patient," said parent Marcia Ottey-McKenzie.

The program has been around for decades.

Parent educators visit homes on a biweekly or monthly basis.

And thanks to that work, Binghamton's PACT Program was named a top-performing home visiting affiliate, earning national recognition.

"I'm just so proud of our program. I'm proud of the other parent educators. We worked hard for this, and it just means a lot to be recognized," said Pellicciotti.

Those who have used the program are urging fellow parents to reach out.

"There's always someone in those programs that is willing to help. Don't be afraid, because there's no book that comes with being a parent," said Ottey-McKenzie.

The PACT program is offered at no cost to every family living in the city.