November 20, 2009

Early Head Start Programs to Receive $2.3 Million

Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Ben Ray Luján announced two grants for Early Head Start programs in New Mexico’s Third District. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act awarded $2,069,138 to Presbyterian Medical Services, which operates statewide, and $245,202 to Eastern Plains Community Action Agency, Inc. in Tucumcari, NM for their Early Head Start Programs. Early Head Start programs were established in 1995 as an extension of Head Start to serve children from birth to 3 years old and pregnant women.

“The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which has already created and saved jobs in New Mexico’s third district, is also providing assistance to much needed programs like Early Head Start,” said Rep. Luján. “In these challenging economic times, it is vital that our community services like Early Head Start are able to continue their work. Early learning helps our kids and our communities in the short- and long-term.  I’m encouraged that this investment is being made in our children’s futures.”

Presbyterian Medical Services provides Early Head Start services in Northern and Western New Mexico. The Eastern Plains Community Action Agency serves most of Eastern New Mexico. This grant will target Eastern Plains Community Action Agency’s Early Head Start program in Tucumcari, allowing for renovations on their current facility and for the agency to enroll additional children into their program.