Exciting News: MMCA Receives 5-Year Head Start Grant!

We’re thrilled to announce that Midcoast Maine Community Action (MMCA) has been awarded a new 5-year Head Start grant starting July 1, 2024. This federal funding will help us continue providing essential early childhood education in Sagadahoc, Lincoln, and Northern Cumberland counties.

“We are honored and excited to receive the 5-year Head Start grant,” says MMCA CEO Claire Berkowitz. “This funding will allow us to continue to meet our mission of providing high-quality early childhood education and support to families in our community.”

The Head Start Program is crucial for our region, offering children a solid educational foundation, health services, and family support. Maine’s congressional delegation has been incredibly supportive of this program and other family-strengthening initiatives at MMCA.

“MMCA has a long-standing commitment to improving the lives of the children and families in my district,” said Rep. Chellie Pingree. “MMCA’s centers are staffed by caring and qualified teachers who provide a nurturing environment where children learn, socialize, receive nutritious meals, and engage in play. I’m so pleased to see this critical resource receive the necessary funding to continue making an incredible difference in the lives of Maine families day in and day out.”

The Head Start program at MMCA uses a two-generation, Whole Family approach to early childhood education, a strengths-based and family-focused model that encourages collaboration between the family, agency, and community resources.

“For decades, Midcoast Maine Community Action has been a bedrock of support for many midcoast families,” said Senator King. “From helping kickstart early childhood education to providing critical health and housing services, the work MMCA does has tangible impacts on communities across the region. This Head Start grant will provide MMCA with the tools and resources to continue their important work of setting children and their families up for success.”

MMCA’s Head Start and Early Head Start Programs offer free, high-quality early education for income-qualified families, empowering children from 6 weeks to 5 years old with essential skills for school and beyond.

“Head Start programs are instrumental in providing educational opportunities that help children cultivate new skills and prepare them for a lifetime of success,” said Senator Susan Collins. “With this federal investment, MMCA can expand its important work in early childhood education and family advocacy.”

For more information about our Head Start and Early Head Start programs, click here.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to support our community with this vital funding!