The needs of newborns with myelomeningocele are a special challenge to the community health nurse. An in-depth knowledge of the pathophysiology of myelomeningocele, the ability to act as a communication channel between agencies, and the provision of ongoing advocacy, supportive counseling, and education to individual families and the community are necessary in addition to standard nursing care. Community health nurses provide this vital link in the holistic care of children with myelomeningocele and their families.