Statement on Strong Child-Focused Provisions of Funding Package

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Council for a Strong America President and CEO Barry Ford, J.D., released this statement on the enactment of the bipartisan funding package:

“On behalf of the members of Council for a Strong America, I applaud Congress for passing and the President signing into law a bipartisan funding package that protects and bolsters support for children and families. At a time when our politics seem so divided, it was great to see Republicans and Democrats come together and support such strong priorities.

“This package includes a $725 million funding increase for the Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG), a $275 million increase for Head Start/Early Head Start, and level funding for the Preschool Development Block Grant.

“Our Mission: Readiness members also applaud a $1 billion increase in funding for the WIC nutrition program. This crucial increase will help ensure young children have access to good nutrition in the earliest years of life.

“I also wish to thank our CSA members who lent their time, energy, and voices to ensure federal lawmakers understand how funding for these programs strengthen our nation.

“As Congress prepares to work on Fiscal Year 2025 funding priorities, we hope lawmakers will continue to provide robust support for these crucial programs so that all children can grow up well-educated, physically fit, and prepared for success in life.”