Rep. Cuellar Announces Over $56.6 Million for Early Head Start and Head Start in Webb County

Program will enhance cognitive, social, and emotional development of 1,290 children  

LAREDO, TX—Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced over $56.6 million for Early Head Start and Head Start in Webb County to help local children become better prepared to succeed in school. Over a five year period, Early Head Start and Head Start will receive $52,620,840 and Early Head Start - Child Care Partnership will receive $4,016,700. This federal funding was awarded through the Department of Health and Human Services to promote the school readiness of children from birth to age five from low-income families by enhancing their cognitive, social, and emotional development.

“Investing in early learning opportunities is critical for both the success of our children and our country,” said Congressman Cuellar. “Children who attend high-quality pre-kindergarten, like Early Head Start and Head Start, are more likely to have better outcomes in school, to graduate from high school, and to become productive adults who contribute to our economy.” 

“As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to fund early learning opportunities so our children have the best chance at achieving the American Dream. I want to thank Webb County Head Start Director Aliza Flores Oliveros, Webb County Judge Tano Tijerina, and the Webb County Commissioners for their dedication to providing educational services to all children and families, regardless of economic background.”

Webb County Head Start Director Aliza Flores Oliveros said, "On behalf of the Webb County Head Start, Early Head Start, and Early Head Start Child Care Partnership staff, children, and families, I offer a heartfelt thank you to Congressman Henry Cuellar for being a champion of early childhood education.  He has been an advocate for Head Start and Early Head Start, and his hard work if reflected in the continuation of services for to the Webb County Community for the next five years.  Additionally, the economic development offered through this grant is significant, with over $56 million dollars awarded to the Webb County Commissioners Court to administer the grants, employ approximately 300 employees, and benefit local vendors.  Judge Tano Tijerina and the Court have been feneficial in the continued success of the Head Start program."  

Specifically, the Early Head Start Program will serve 72 infants, toddlers, and pregnant women and the Head Start Program will serve 1,218 children 3-5 years in age. The Webb County Head Start program helps children become better prepared to succeed in school and in life by addressing the needs of the child as a whole. This includes educational services to children and their parents, dental and nutritional services, social services, mental health services, services for children with disabilities, family and community strengthening, and opportunities for parent involvement.