Gov. Pritzker Highlights Childcare Efforts in Villa Park, Champaign
“For far too long, childcare has been either unavailable, unaffordable, or both,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Smart Start’s nation-leading investments ensure that parents can access this vital resource alongside other essential supports to give their children the tools to succeed as early as possible.”
"We know that 90% of a child's brain has developed by age five. Smart Start is ensuring every child in Illinois has the very best start in life,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. “By providing support for our youngest Illinoisans and the people who care for them, we are laying the foundation for a thriving society and a thriving Illinois."
The Smart Start Illinois Plan consists of three major initiatives:
Easterseals Dupage & Fox Valley works to build inclusive communities with advocacy so every child can have access to services and opportunities for healthy development. Through providing therapy services to more than 2,901 local families, the organization ensures empowerment for children dealing with autism, developmental delays or other disabilities.
First United Methodist Child Care Center (FUMCCC) is licensed by DCFS, and serves approximately 100 families in Urbana, Champaign, and surrounding areas. Through Creative Curriculum, FUMCCC responds to children’s individual needs and provide teacher-directed activities and child-initiated activities to create a welcoming and enriching environment.
“The investment laid out to expand early childhood education continues us on a path that makes quality learning more accessible and closes equity gaps across the state,” said Senator Laura Ellman (D-Naperville). “This initiative offers new services, uplifts childcare workers, and creates enhanced school programs to give families confidence in choosing Illinois schools to educate their children.”
“Smart Start Illinois is our continued investment for the next generation of Illinoisans,” said State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “This funding bolsters our education workforce, childhood development and ensures every child in our community has access to a high-quality learning environment.”
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