Rep. Delgado Announces Nearly $4 Million in Funding for Upstate Head Start Programs
Statement
Today, U.S. Representative Antonio Delgado (NY-19) announced $3,894,901 in funding for Head Start Programs in Otsego and Sullivan Counties. The grants were allocated through the Administration for Children and Families at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The upstate organizations, Opportunities for Otsego, Inc. and Sullivan County Head Start, Inc., will receive $2,118,396 and $1,776,505 respectively in funding. Head Start programs promote the school readiness of infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children from low-income families. Services are provided in a variety of settings including centers, family child care, and children's own home. Head Start programs also engage parents or other key family members in positive relationships, with a focus on family wellbeing.
"Prioritizing early education is key to supporting our children, grandchildren and the future generations of New York as they grow and learn," said Rep. Delgado. "This funding for Head Start programs in both Otsego and Sullivan counties will support our local education providers and increase access to early education for young children, equip expecting parents with the tools needed to prepare for parenthood, and establish healthy learning environments in school and at home. We must continue investing in our kids and our communities and make quality child care, family support services, and early education a top priority for all."
Head Start programs are available at no cost to children ages birth to 5 from low-income families. Programs may provide transportation to the centers so enrolled children can participate regularly. Families and children experiencing homelessness, and children in the foster care system are also eligible. Additionally, Head Start services are available to children with disabilities and other special needs. These programs deliver services through 1,600 agencies in local communities. They provide services to more than a million children every year, in every U.S. state and territory. "Head Start" includes several different program types reflecting the needs of specific populations within the community.
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