DENVER—Today, U.S. Representative Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded Jefferson County $2,112,475 in federal funding for Head Start and Early Head Start programs to support some of Colorado’s most vulnerable young children and their families.
“As the mom of a young son, I know that the early years of a child’s education are crucial for their academic—and professional—success in the future. Unfortunately, for too many families, especially those in underserved communities, it is difficult to find and access quality early childhood education,” said Pettersen. “Head Start and Early Head Start programs are critical for families struggling to make ends meet, and I’m thrilled this federal funding is coming right to Jefferson County to make high-quality early childhood education and care more accessible to those who need it the most.”
“Jefferson County Head Start uses these funds to provide intensive classroom support and wrap-around family services to address a significant increase in children’s behavioral and developmental issues at a rate not seen before,” said Jefferson County Head Start Director Gayle Perryman. “Children ages zero to five and their families who are below the poverty level benefit from these funds as we provide a critical foundation that will ensure these children are prepared to succeed in public school.”
During her time in the Colorado state legislature, Pettersen championed many investments in early childhood education and expansion to help increase accessibility in child care deserts. She successfully helped pass a bill to launch a universal preschool program in the state, and has continued championing similar efforts in Congress to support early education and child care nationwide, including programs like Head Start. The comprehensive services Head Start offers include early education, health screenings, social and emotional health, nutrition, social services, and services for children with disabilities. These comprehensive programs are offered to children from low-income households, as well as supports and services for their families.
