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MY Town Wraps Up ' Sponsorship Changes ' Immigration Resources ' Legislative Visits ' Summer Activities
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In our over 20 years as a voice for young children and families, we are excited to see growing alignment at the local, state and national level to ensure that our youngest children have the support they need--from the start. While services for young children and families remain underfunded and First 5 continues to see our funding decline and local needs grow, it is important to recognize the recent investments in early childhood that will benefit our community. To name a few:
The Monterey County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the use of cannabis funds in the amount of $340,000 to help bolster the work of Bright Beginnings. This funding is in support of the countywide early childhood development strategic framework--a road map to help our youngest children and their families reach their full potential. Governor Gavin Newsom and the California state legislature passed a 2019/2020 budget that invests a historic $2 billion in early childhood and family services. Local funders continue to support early childhood. This includes grants from the Monterey Peninsula Foundation and the Giannini Fund for both First 5 general operating expenditures and to ensure supports are provided to immigrant families in fear of jeopardizing their legal status when accessing government services. This month we highlight the completion of the MY Town Children's Summer Pop-up Museum, changes to our sponsorship program, immigration resources, and meetings with local legislators. Plus, don't miss some great ideas for summer activities that we are showcasing from our social media followers. |
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 Summer was a bit more exciting this year with the opening of the MY Town Children's Summer Pop-up Museum. This family-friendly exhibit came to a close on July 21 but not before providing interactive and playful experiences to thousands of children and families in the community. MY Town came to life through the support of partners that included CSUMB Salinas Center for Arts and Culture, MY Museum, TAMC, Salinas Public Library (City of Salinas), Hijos del Sol, and First 5 Monterey County. All spon... READ MORE |
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 For over a decade, we have invested in a Sponsorship program to ensure that the broad community has a way to include young children in local events. This work has supported both small and large events and has helped groups find age-appropriate ways for young children to enjoy events and connect families to local resources. The First 5 Commission recently changed the approach to our Sponsorship Program to ensure that we can reach families in a meaningful way. First 5 Monterey County values buildi... READ MORE |
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 An estimated 35% of children in our communities are growing up in families who have mixed immigration status where one parent is a citizen, and another is pursuing their legal status. Young children feel the stress experienced by families worried about possible separation--this can negatively impact their development. It is important to First 5 to help provide resources and support to families so they are aware of their rights and can make informed decisions during challenging times. Use the lin... READ MORE |
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 Members of the Central Coast Early Childhood Advocacy Network (Network) recently met with state legislators at their local offices to discuss support for bills that have a critical impact for families in the tri-county area. These visits are one of the ways the Network collectively advances early childhood policy goals and makes an impact to support families and children on the Central Coast. We extend our thanks to the offices of Senators Bill Monning and Anna Caballero and Assemblymembers Robe... READ MORE |
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 We asked our followers on Facebook and Instagram to share their favorite summer activity that they love to do with the little ones in their life. Ana V shared, "We have already gone to the CSUMB pop up museum at the old Steinbeck center 3 times. Love summer community events for kids." Here's a few other comments that embraced the fun of summer: READ MORE |
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FIRST 5 MONTEREY COUNTY
1125 Baldwin Street
Salinas, CA 93906
(831) 444-8637 (fax)
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