Washington, DC – U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $10,913,630 in federal funding for Head Start Programs in the Hudson Valley. The funding was provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Head Start Programs and will be used to support child care and support services for low-income families in the area. The Regional Economic Community Action Program (RECAP) will receive $2,236,571 and will use the funding to serve three and four year olds in Middletown, Scotchtown, and Port Jervis. Head Start of Rockland, Inc. will receive $8,677,059 to provide high-quality early childhood education services to low income children and families in Rockland County.
“Access to a high-quality education is imperative for all New Yorkers and the foundation of a thriving society,” said Senator Schumer. “This funding will provide children in the Hudson Valley with a solid education putting them on the right path forward to build strong futures. I will continue to be a tireless advocate for higher quality education for all children throughout the Hudson Valley and work to give them every tool for success.”
“The Head Start Programs give children opportunities to reach their full potential by making high-quality early childhood education and care more accessible,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This federal funding will help provide young children in the Hudson Valley with the tools they need to get a strong start in life. I will always fight for the resources that help prepare our children for success.”
“On behalf of the Board, Executive Team and staff of RECAP we are thrilled for the funding for our Head Start Programs,” said Charles Quinn, Chief Executive Officer, Regional Economic Community Action Program (RECAP). “As the anti-poverty program, RECAP realizes the benefits of early education and knows education is one of the most effective anti-poverty programs. We are thankful to Senators Gillibrand and Schumer and our federal partners for working on this funding on behalf of the children and families of Orange County.”
“Head Start of Rockland, Inc. has served the Rockland County community for 55 years, providing head start services. We are thankful for the opportunity to continue these comprehensive services with the grant awarded March 2020,” said Ouida Foster Toutebon, Executive Director, Head Start of Rockland, Inc.
Head Start Programs provide comprehensive child development programs for low-income children from birth to age five, as well as support and services for their families. Head Start programs primarily serve children aged three to five. The comprehensive services these programs offer include early education, health screenings, social and emotional health, nutrition, social services, and services for children with disabilities.