Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has awarded Community Concepts in Oxford and Franklin Counties a total of $6,597,254 for their Community Concepts, Head Start and Early Head Start Programs. The grants are being awarded through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Children and Families.

"Head Start not only lays a solid educational foundation for children but also empowers parents to actively engage in their children's growth and development,” said Senators Collins and King. “By investing in these programs, we are investing in the success and well-being of our children and families, fostering a brighter future for the next generation of Mainers."

Community Concepts offers Head Start and Early Head Start programs in Oxford and Franklin Counties. All programs promote school readiness for children and provide families with a wide range of services to support their health and family well-being. Services are available for families with children ages birth to 5, and for families expecting a baby.

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 supports local agencies that provide Head Start services across the country.