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Van Hollen, Cardin, Trone Announce More Than $4.5 Million for Early Childhood Education in Western Maryland

U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressman David Trone (all D-Md.) today announced more than $4.5 million in federal funding for Head Start and Early Head Start programs to expand early learning, development, health services, and family well-being in Garrett and Washington counties.

“Investing in early childhood education is one of the best ways we can help our children achieve future success. Head Start programs not only expand access to education for our youngest students but also strive to address inequities in education that have widened during the pandemic. This funding will help provide educators and families in Western Maryland the necessary resources and support to set students up for success from a young age,” said Senator Van Hollen. “We’ll continue working to support Head Start and other early childhood education programs in our state and around the country – so that every child can access a high-quality education.”

“Early childhood education is critical for preparing our children for future schooling and setting them up for success, particularly in light of the challenges brought on by the pandemic. This new federal funding will support high-quality education and learning development programs for low-income families to ensure that all children in Western Maryland can access the education they deserve,” said Senator Cardin. “Team Maryland will continue working to secure resources to close learning gaps and create opportunities to help the next generation reach their full potential.”

“Children across Western Maryland have been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and Head Start of Washington County and the Garrett County Community Action Committee are providing education and development services to help them through this challenging time,” said Congressman Trone. “This funding will allow these organizations to continue their important work and provide generations to come with the building blocks for a successful future.”

The $4,580,267 award comes from the Office of Head Start through the Department of Health and Human Services and will be distributed as follows:

  • Head Start of Washington County, Inc.– $2,970,348
  • Garrett County Community Action Committee, Inc.– $1,609,919

Each year, Head Start and Early Head Start programs benefit more than a million families nationwide. More information on Head Start and Early Head Start programs and services can be found here.