U.S. Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $2,361,543 in Head Start funding for Delaware Opportunities, Inc. in Hamden. The funding was allocated through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and will be used to enhance early child development programs and foster productive learning for children in low-income families, with a focus on early learning and development, health, and family well-being.
“Study after study shows that the better we prepare our young children, through programs like Head Start, the better they perform in school later in life,” said Senator Schumer. “This federal funding for Hamden will bring real results to our young scholars by providing them with the resources they need to succeed both in and out of the classroom. I am proud to support this essential funding and I will continue to fight to ensure that early childhood education remains a priority, especially during the pandemic.”
“This funding is great news for children in Hamden and will help ensure every child has access to the tools and foundation needed for a strong start in life,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Funding for Head Start is key to building a better future for every child in New York and makes it possible for low-income families to prepare their children with valuable life skills to succeed in kindergarten and beyond.”
“Delaware Opportunities takes great pride in being able to provide educational opportunities for children ages three and four, preparing them for transition to Kindergarten. Children (and families) receive services and support through nine strategically positioned Head Start locations throughout Delaware County. These services would not be possible without the continued support and guidance from the US Department of Health and Human Services.” – Dr. Shelly L. Bartow, Delaware Opportunities Inc. Executive Director
Head Start provides 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 pregnant women, infants, and toddlers. The comprehensive services these programs offer include early education, health screenings, social and emotional health services, nutrition services, social services, and services for children with disabilities.
Delaware Opportunities Inc. was established in 1965 under provisions of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, as a Community Action Agency, and helps people achieve self-sufficiency and a better quality of life.