Award will support programs serving 132 children
MILWAUKEE – August 26, 2024 – Penfield Children’s Center, which offers high-quality, integrated education, health and wellness services, and family programs to maximize early development and learning, has been awarded $2,429,423 in Head Start funding. The funding will serve a total of 132 children: 112 through Early Head Start center-based and home-based programming, and 20 children in the Head Start center-based program.
“We know early experiences matter, and set the foundations for lifelong development,” said Polina Makievsky, President & CEO of Penfield Children’s Center. “Head Start programming will directly contribute to our mission of ensuring children have positive early experiences, helping all children realize their full potential.”
The federal government funds Head Start programs through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families. Head Start services are available at no cost to pregnant women and children ages birth to five in eligible families.
“Early childhood development plays a key role in the overall educational success of young people, and the Head Start program offers vital services in this area to many families in our community,” said Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson. “I want as many Milwaukee families as possible to enjoy the benefits of Head Start participation, so the Head Start funding that Penfield Children’s Center is receiving will help provide that access and allow parents to better position their young children for educational success.”
Eligible participants for Head Start programming include children whose families meet the federal low-income guidelines or who receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, Supplemental Security Income, or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program public assistance services. Other eligible participants include children who are in the foster care system or experiencing homelessness. Programs may also accept a limited number of children who do not meet any of those eligibility criteria.
“In order to achieve racial equity and become the healthiest county in Wisconsin, we know Milwaukee kids need resources to thrive. That’s why investing in early childhood development is about making a strong commitment to the future of our community and its ongoing growth,” said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. “With this Head Start funding, Penfield Children’s Center will play a critical role in helping Milwaukee County families receive the tools and support they need for our young people to become educated, healthy, and successful. I’m looking forward to working with Penfield Children’s Center to foster Milwaukee County’s leaders of today, tomorrow, and the future.”
“As a former Head Start parent I know firsthand how these programs help promote strong growth and development of our children. Organizations like Penfield Children’s Center play a critical role supporting children and families of all ages in our community and this Head Start funding will help ensure that more families can benefit from this impactful program,” said Gwen Moore, U.S. Representative of Wisconsin’s 4th Congressional District.
Penfield Children’s Center anticipates its Head Start programming will be operational by early December. Further information and updates on programming can be found by visiting penfieldchildren.org.
“We exist in a childcare desert,” said Makievsky. “Children and families urgently need these programs and services, and we’re ready to meet them where they are.”
