U.S. Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) and Rep. Peter Welch (D-Vt.) announced today that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has awarded Vermont $3.4 million in funding to help support Head Start programs in Barre and Burlington.

The Central Vermont Community Action Agency in Barre was awarded $1.8 million. Another $1.5 million will go to the Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity of Burlington.

Head Start programs provide education to low-income children and social services for their families. Currently, 344 Vermont children ages 3-5 receive all-day child care through the Head Start program, which allows parents to work or complete their education.

Sanders said, "It is essential that we ensure that Vermont's young children get the best possible start in education. I am delighted that this funding will enable Head Start to do more for young children in Vermont, and I congratulate the Head Start teachers and parents whose excellent work has helped to secure these grants."

Leahy said, "This funding is essential to ensure that Vermont children have every opportunity for a safe and healthy start in education while helping parents return to work."

Welch said, "This is wonderful news that will ensure Vermont children in need continue to receive important services that make a tremendous and lasting difference in their lives."