Community Partners Join Forces to Strengthen At-Risk Children & Families

Children First, the exclusive provider of Head Start and Early Head Start Services for Sarasota County, is thrilled to announce a remarkable collaboration with generous community partners who are stepping up to empower those in need. Through their combined efforts totaling nearly $55,000, they are making a significant impact on the lives of local children and families.

The vital funding includes $12,500 from the Wilson-Wood Foundation, $10,000 from the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation, $7,500 from the Evalyn Sadlier Jones Foundation, $5,000 from the Sarasota County Foundation, $5,000 from the Venice Yacht Club Charitable Foundation, and $1,000 from the SYC Cares Fund at the Community Foundation of Sarasota County for scholarships.

Furthermore, the Libertore Foundation for Children has continued its support of Children First by providing an additional $5,000 gift, marking the second installment of their generous $15,000 contribution towards scholarships.

Additional support includes $4,200 from Suncoast Charities for Children for assistance packages and adjustable tables and chairs, $1,500 from the Cowles Charitable Trust for scholarships and comprehensive services, $1,500 from the Sarasota Kiwanis Foundation for comprehensive services, and $1,300 from the MSC Foundation for comprehensive services.

“The combined efforts of these outstanding community partners exemplify the power of collaboration and the shared commitment to improving the lives of children and families in Sarasota County. Together, we are transforming the lives of the young minds who will shape our community's future,” says Children First CEO Philip Tavill.

About Children First:

Founded in 1961 and ranked in the top 1% out of over 1,800 Head Starts nationwide, Children First strengthens children and families by improving the quality of their lives through a comprehensive approach to development, education, health, and well-being. At 15 sites throughout Sarasota County, Children First offers full-day preschool, infant and toddler care, and nutrition and health care assistance to children ages birth to five years old from low-income families. Through Children First, the children receive the social and cognitive skills needed to enter kindergarten and elementary school on track. For more information, call (941) 953-3877 or go to childrenfirst.net.

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