First 5 Meeting Increasing Need
First 5 Meeting Increasing Need
As the Legislature struggles to find a solution to the state's $17 billion-plus deficit, county First 5 commissions continue to work with their partners -- health and social service departments, early educators, and safety net providers -- to meet increasing local need. Many commissions have augmented funding for programs harmed by the sluggish economy and the state budget delay, while others have forged new countywide partnerships to meet a range of emerging (and emergency) needs.
The First 5 Association is grateful that voters will not be asked -- for the 4th time -- to vote on Prop 10 to help close the budget gap. However, we realize that many provisions in the proposed budget could cause tremendous harm to children and families. Moreover, the budget proposal under discussion still assumes a voluntary contribution by First 5 of $81.4 million for the Healthy Families Program and $50 million for the state Department of Developmental Services -- an understandable request, but one that will result in funds no longer being available for planned First 5 initiatives.
As the budget negotiations continue, county First 5 commissions continue to pursue the basic premise of Prop 10 -- to enhance the early health and development of children, close the school readiness gap, and support families with prevention and early intervention programs that will prevent the need for more costly help when their children get older. You will find information on this page that illustrates First 5's accomplishments and provides background on county commission activities.
The First 5 Association is grateful that voters will not be asked -- for the 4th time -- to vote on Prop 10 to help close the budget gap. However, we realize that many provisions in the proposed budget could cause tremendous harm to children and families. Moreover, the budget proposal under discussion still assumes a voluntary contribution by First 5 of $81.4 million for the Healthy Families Program and $50 million for the state Department of Developmental Services -- an understandable request, but one that will result in funds no longer being available for planned First 5 initiatives.
As the budget negotiations continue, county First 5 commissions continue to pursue the basic premise of Prop 10 -- to enhance the early health and development of children, close the school readiness gap, and support families with prevention and early intervention programs that will prevent the need for more costly help when their children get older. You will find information on this page that illustrates First 5's accomplishments and provides background on county commission activities.
 | What First 5 Is Accomplishing |
| Why First 5 Does What It Does |
