Printer Friendly Version

WYDEN, SMITH ANNOUNCE EDUCATION FUNDS FOR DOUGLAS COUNTY AREA
$575,696 awarded for local Head Start programs

December 15, 2003

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and Gordon Smith (R-Ore.) today announced that $575,696 will be awarded to the Parent’s Action Council, a part of the Umpqua Community Action Network, to help fund Head Start projects in the Douglas County area. Head Start programs serve children from birth to age five and prepare them for successful educational careers. Assistance with early childhood development, medical and dental care and parental involvement is offered through Head Start.

“For more than 15 years, Head Start has successfully provided comprehensive and essential education services to Oregon children and families,” said Wyden. “These funds are critical to helping more of our children become strong learners early in life.”

“Head Start programs provide lasting benefits for Oregon’s children and communities,” said Smith. “These funds are a commitment to healthy and effective child development.”

Funds are provided directly to local public agencies and private organizations for disbursement to Head Start programs on a community level. This grant is being awarded by the Department of Health and Human Services.

###