Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that Midcoast Maine Community Action Program and Aroostook Micmac Council have received a total of $1,657,710 for their Head Start programs.

“Head Start programs are instrumental in ensuring that children cultivate new skills and receive educational opportunities that prepare them for a lifetime of success,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement.  “We welcome this important investment in Maine families.”

The funding is allocated as follows:

• Midcoast Maine Community Action Program was awarded $1,484,523 for its Head Start program that is available for residents of Lincoln, Sagadahoc, and northeastern Cumberland counties.
• Aroostook Micmac Council was awarded $173,187 for its Head Start program that is available for members of the Aroostook Band of Micmacs.

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.  Head Start services include early learning, health, and family well-being.  This funding, which was awarded through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, funds local agencies that provide Head Start services across the country.