WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) announced more than $25 million in federal funding has been awarded through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to support Head Start programs serving families across Northern and Central Illinois.

The funding will help expand access to early childhood education, health services, and family support programs for children and working families in the region.

"Head Start programs are a lifeline for families-providing high-quality early education, nutritious meals, and critical support services that help children succeed in school and in life," said Congressman Sorensen. "It means kids have a safe place to learn and grow, and parents have support they can count on. This funding is about giving more children in our communities a strong start."

"Continued funding for our local Head Start and Early Head Start programs is critical to ensuring that many of our communities most vulnerable young children and families have access to critical early learning opportunities, and the family supports for better navigation of social and health services that strengthen families, improve outcomes, and change lives." said Anqunette Parham, Executive Director of Health and Human Services.

"This funding makes it possible for us to provide consistent, high-quality early learning experiences and essential family support services to those who need them most," said Jill Calkins, President/CEO of Tri-County Opportunities Council. "For the children and families we serve, it means stronger beginnings, greater opportunities, and the support needed to build a brighter future."

The funding recipients include:

• Peoria Citizens Committee for Economic Opportunity, Inc. - $8,286,961
• Tri-County Opportunities Council - $8,371,821
• City of Rockford - $8,849,082

Head Start programs promote school readiness for young children from low-income families by supporting their cognitive, social, and emotional development. These investments also provide essential resources for parents, helping strengthen families and local communities.

Congressman Sorensen has been a strong advocate for expanding access to early childhood education and making sure federal resources reach communities that need them most.