The COVID-19 pandemic, recent wildfires and the movement for racial justice have all amplified the need for systems that will provide an equitable and sustainable future for our children. It will take all of us working together to make change so we invite advocates, parents, and community leaders to join us!

Town Hall with Congressman Panetta ' October 12, 4:00pm - 5:30pm READ MORE

As part of the Central Coast Early Childhood Advocacy Network (CCECAN), First 5 Monterey helped host a Virtual Advocacy Workshop to practice advocacy and storytelling skills for policy change. Thank you to everyone who shared their stories and visions for a more equitable future. It was inspiring to witness the strength and resilience in our communities and we are excited to hear these voices and others at our upcoming Town Hall. READ MORE

The Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce and Santa Cruz County Bank have partnered to host the First Annual Education Forum on Friday, October 16 from 12:00pm - 2:00pm to discuss how the pandemic is changing the face of education, technology, child care, and workforce development. READ MORE

While we work for long-term systems change, we are also working hard to support immediate needs. We partnered with local nonprofits, churches, and city governments to distribute 402,674 diapers, 490,200 wipes, and 400 cans of formula for community partners and family resource centers. READ MORE

Expecting a baby is a nervous and exciting time! From the womb, parents begin to learn about their child and form important bonds. To help support this relationship, First 5 California offers the free Kit for New Parents (Kit) and First 5 Monterey County organizes the distribution locally. The Kit recognizes parents as their child's first and most important teacher and includes information on nutrition, safety, quality child care, health, discipline, and early learning. READ MORE

First 5 Monterey County is seeking a professional evaluation organization to conduct an Outcome Evaluation on select First 5 Monterey County funded programs. The Outcome Evaluation (evaluation) will focus on understanding systems change as a result of the interconnected work of programs funded by F5MC. READ MORE

This has been an unusual year for the timing of the legislative season - however, there is still much to celebrate and be hopeful for, including the expansion of the California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC) and the Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC), and job protections for employees taking care of a new child. READ MORE

First 5 Monterey County funds the implementation of the Central Coast Early Childhood Advocacy Network (CCECAN). Please visit their new website! Advocacy happens everywhere, and CCECAN wants to make sure every child and family is heard and seen - including online! Check out their new website by clicking here to learn more and like CCECAN on Facebook! READ MORE