Senators Collins, King Announce More than $11.7 Million for Head Start Programs in Aroostook, Penobscot, and Kennebec Counties

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that three Head Start programs in Aroostook, Penobscot, and Kennebec counties have been awarded a total of $11,773,325 from the Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Children and Families.

“Head Start programs are instrumental in ensuring that young children cultivate new skills and receive educational opportunities,” Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement.  “We welcome this important investment in the children and families of Aroostook, Penobscot, and Kennebec counties.”

The funding is allocated as follows:

·         Aroostook County Action Program will receive $3,565,665.

·         Penquis C.A.P., Inc., of Penobscot County will receive $4,987,874.

·         Southern Kennebec Child Development Corporation will receive $3,219,786.

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, which was awarded through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, funds local agencies that provide Head Start services across the country.