U.S. Representative Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson today announced $1.83 million in federal funding that will go to the Armstrong County Community Action Agency in Kittanning, to support local Head Start programs.
The funding is made possible through a $1,830,400 grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The grant will be used to support children’s growth and development through services that include learning, health, and family well-being.
“Locally, Head Start serves more than 200 children across 13 sites throughout Armstrong County. This grant will be instrumental in continuing to deliver early childhood education. By providing early learning experiences, we help children become life-long learners, which will lead to future success within the community and workforce,” said Representative GT Thompson.
“This is vital funding that will assist three- to five-year-old children in rural Armstrong County with important school readiness skills before entering kindergarten. The Head Start families are also an integral part of the program. For program or enrollment information, call (724) 548-3408,” said Linda Cornman, the Deputy Director of the Armstrong Community Action Agency.
The Head Start programs provide services to over a million children every year, delivered through 1,700 agencies in local communities across the country. More than 80 percent of children served by Head Start programs are three and four year-olds. Head Start programs prepare children for school through individualized learning experiences and guidance. All children receive health and development screenings, nutritious meals, and mental health support. Parents and families are also supported in achieving housing stability, continued education, and financial security.