OUR MISSION:
To ensure early childhood systems and supports foster equitable health, development and
well-being for all young children and their families
in Santa Cruz County.
Our Vision of Success: Healthy, Happy, and Well-Prepared Children. Thriving Families. Connected Communities. Equitable Systems.
When Proposition 10 passed in 1998, California made a definitive and enduring commitment to promote the health and well- being of young children, prenatal through age five, and their families. For over 20 years, First 5 Santa Cruz County has had the great privilege and responsibility to serve as the steward of Prop 10 revenue, ensuring these public funds benefit young children and their families throughout Santa Cruz County.
We are dedicated to giving children ages 0-5 the opportunities they need to be healthy, able to learn, emotionally well-developed and ultimately reach their full potential. Since its inception, First 5 Santa Cruz County has invested in many innovative, effective programs and initiatives that help:
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Ensure all children ages birth through age 5 have access to health insurance and preventative care
Increase protective factors and decrease child abuse and neglect
Improve access to affordable, quality early care and education
Build early language and literacy skills that are the foundation for future learning
To help us realize our vision, First 5 Santa Cruz County
has established four strategic priorities:
