Enyart Announces $1.8 Million For Head Start

Press Release

U.S. Congressman Bill Enyart (IL-12) announced today a $1.8 million grant award for Head Start at the Western Egyptian Economic Opportunity Council, Inc.

"Head Start plays a critical role in the development of our young children in Southern Illinois," said Enyart. "An award of this size shows how valuable Head Start is in Monroe, Randolph, and Perry counties. This grant will fund operations in ten locations for over 300 children and their families."

The Western Egyptian Economic Opportunity Council coordinates Head Start programs in Chester, Percy, Coulterville, Sparta, Tamaroa, DuQuoin, Evansville, Pinckneyville, Waterloo, and Columbia. The federally funded child development program serves children three and four years old, from fixed-income families.

"Head Start ensures that children from every background have a fair shot before the very first day of Kindergarten," added Enyart. "It's vital that we continue to fund this program that is near and dear to the hearts of Southern Illinois families."

The grant will fund nutrition costs, dental services for children, child development programs, and much more. The grant totals $1,853,592, and was awarded from the Department of Health and Human Services.

Western Egyptian Economic Opportunity Council is now accepting applications for Head Start enrollment at its ten facilities.

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