Washington, D.C – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded Community Concepts a total of $5,962,290 for its Head Start and Early Head Start Programs.

“Head Start programs across Maine provide invaluable resources to young children and their families, helping them to develop new skills and build educational opportunities,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement.  “Head Start providers like Community Concepts work tirelessly to make their communities stronger.  We appreciate this continued federal investment in Maine’s future.” 

Community Concepts is a non-profit organization based in Lewiston and South Paris that works to strengthen individuals, families, and communities in Western Maine by providing diverse programs, engaging in strategic partnerships, and promoting economic opportunities for all.

Head Start was established in 1965 to promote school readiness and provide a comprehensive array of health, nutritional, and social services to eligible four- and five-year-old preschoolers and their families.  Early Head Start services are available for eligible children age zero to three and pregnant women.  Head Start services include early learning, health, and family well-being.