Durbin, Duckworth Announce $21.9 Million In American Rescue Plan Funding To Support Head Start Programs In Illinois

Press Release

WASHINGTON -- U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today announced a total of $21.9 million in American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding to support the return to fully operational, in-person Head Start services for the children under the age of five most impacted by inequities exposed by the pandemic in Illinois. The funding was awarded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) Administration for Children and Families.

"This Head Start funding is an example of the critical economic support that the American Rescue Plan is providing for communities around Illinois," Durbin said. "Many of the families served by these programs live in communities that have been disproportionately devastated by the health and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. This federal funding will help build the foundation for lifelong success by supporting early learning, health, and family well-being."

"Early Head Start and Head Start programs are critical for kids throughout Illinois to have the tools they need to succeed both inside and outside of the classroom," Duckworth said. "Investments in early childhood education and parental support programs aren't just critical during this pandemic, they are investments in our future. I'm proud to continue supporting this program with Senator Durbin to help children reach their full potential."

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