Speak out for early childhood programs!

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The Issue
Help make sure early childhood programming is preserved in Michigan’s 2011 budget!

On Feb. 11, the Governor’s budget recommendations for Fiscal Year 2011 will be presented to the State House and Senate Appropriations Committees. After the Governor presents her recommendations, the legislature will begin drafting budget bills.

Studies show 90 percent of the brain develops in the first three years of life. Without proper development and educational exposure, a child will start Kindergarten already behind.

Last year, the Michigan Legislature proposed drastic cuts that would severely decrease the amount and quality of early learning programs in our state. Let’s not let that happen again this year!

What United Way is doing
If cuts are made to early childhood programs, United Way’s Early Learning Communities (ELC) and other important programs will not be able to expand and serve more children.

ELCs provide training and resources to individuals who care for children ages birth to 5.

Parents and caregivers are known to be the largest influence on a child’s initial development, yet there is a lack of training and knowledge about the importance of early education. The ELCs are addressing these issues and improving the care and education of young children in at-risk neighborhoods throughout Wayne, Oakland and Macomb Counties.

Since its launch, the ELCs have enrolled over 1,000 caregivers in training and impacted over 4,800 children.

How you can help
Contact your legislators and urge them to continue funding early education.

Simply send the pre-written letter and let your voice be heard!