One week after announcing that funding woes could force local Head Start and early Head Start programs to close, Encompass Community Services—which oversees the programs—announced that they will remain open through Oct. 31.
The announcement means that the 250 families that depend on the early learning, nutrition, and family support services throughout the county will continue, for now.
It was made possible by $362,000 in bridge funding—including $240,000 from the County of Santa Cruz, which the Board of Supervisors are set to approve on Tuesday.
The money also comes from a partnership that includes the Santa Cruz County Office of Education and First 5 Santa Cruz County.
“We are deeply grateful to our partners for stepping forward with urgency, collaboration, and a deep understanding of how vital Head Start is to working families,” said Encompass CEO Shellee Stopera. “This partnership is an incredible example of what’s possible when a community comes together to put children and families first.”
The bridge funding provides time to work toward resolution of federal funding issues affecting Head Start programs nationwide, Encompass stated in a press release.
This includes delays associated with the federal government shutdown and the reversal of previously approved carryover funds and a proposed reduction in the program’s federal grant .
“Head Start is one of the most important investments our community can make in children and families,” said Santa Cruz County Superintendent of Schools Faris Sabbah. “When we learned that federal funding delays might disrupt services, local partners came together immediately to find a solution. This collaboration ensures that children can continue learning in safe, nurturing environments while we work together on long-term stability. I’m proud of how our community continues to step up for its youngest learners.”
Encompass is working with Congressman Jimmy Panetta and other federal officials to advocate for the restoration of federal funding from $6 million to $10 million, and to reauthorize the use of previously approved carryover funds.
On a positive note, Monterey County allocated over $1 million for the Watsonville homeless navigation center.