Menendez and Booker announce $23M to support Head Start in NJ – NJBIZ

U.S. Sens. Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, both democrats from New Jersey, announced Thursday the awarding of $23 million to support early childhood education programs in Hudson, Cumberland and Essex counties from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through Head Start.

The following organizations received funding: The Leaguers in Essex County: $16,851,621; Tri-County Community Action Inc. in Cumberland County: $4,815,301; and the Bayonne Economic Opportunity Foundation in Hudson County: $1,529,894.

“All children, regardless of zip code, are entitled to high-quality, early childhood education that gives them the tools necessary to achieve their dreams,” Menendez said in a press release. “This federal funding will provide New Jersey students the opportunities to create, learn and grow in an ever-changing society.”

“Quality early education programs like Head Start are the key to cultivating the skills children need to ensure future success,” Booker said in the release. “In New Jersey, Head Start programs have provided engaging opportunities for our youngest students to create, learn and explore. This federal funding will help provide students the tools they need to reach their full potential and succeed well into the future.”

The Leaguers, founded in 1943, seeks to enhance the quality of life for children and families through diverse educational and cultural programs. The programs look to foster self-growth, personal empowerment and pride in one’s community.

Through a dedicated network of professional teachers, social workers, counselors, nutritionists, and program planners, the Tri-County Community Action Agency Inc. assists individuals and families to achieve personal, social and economic self-sufficiency.

The Bayonne Economic Opportunity Foundation provides services to low-income families, and disabled and elderly residents living in Hudson County.

The Head Start initiative provides comprehensive child development programs for low-income children and their families.