ALBUQUERQUE, NM – U.S. Representative Michelle Lujan Grisham (NM-01) released the following statement in reaction to two federal grant awards totaling $5.2 million for Head Start and Early Head Start programs in New Mexico.
 
"I welcome this investment in the early education and future of New Mexico's children and families. Early childhood education has a proven, beneficial impact in boosting graduation rates, increasing earnings, and addressing poverty overall,"says Rep. Lujan Grisham. "These Head Start grants will help many more New Mexican children and families grow up with a passion for learning, have a fair chance at good-paying jobs, and reach a more secure future. I will continue to support investing in programs that educate children, and strengthen our economy and communities."

"YDI is pleased to receive federal funding to continue our efforts to work with private child care centers like St. Marks in the Valley and First Fruits who believe and have adopted the Head Start model," says Debra Baca, Vice-President, Youth Development Inc. "This program bridges the gap between childcare and Early Head Start education which we collectively believe builds quality within the early learning community."
 
The Head Start and Early Head Start Programs include comprehensive services such as: education; screenings and follow-up for health, development, and behavior; social and emotional health; nutrition; social services; and transition services.
 
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced the following grant awards to organizations within New Mexico's First Congressional district:
 
Youth Development Inc.
$1.5 Million
Early Head Start
YDI is a well-established and nationally recognized youth service organization that provides a wide variety of assistance to children, youth and families in Albuquerque and close communities. Official grant announcement here.
 
HELP - New Mexico, Inc.
$3.7 Million
Head Start and Early Head Start
HELP New Mexico, Inc. (HELP-NM) provides social services, adult education, job training, early childhood development and education, youth development and care to individuals and families throughout New Mexico. Official grant announcement here.