FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Courtney Armstrong
Courtney@first5association.org
SACRAMENTO, CA (January 28, 2025)—Last night, the Trump administration issued a memo temporarily halting all federal grant and loan disbursements, causing widespread uncertainty among families, federal agencies, and non-governmental organizations.
The First 5 Association of California, which represents First 5 Commissions across 58 counties, issued the following statement regarding the federal grant freeze announced by the Trump administration:
First 5 Association – Attributed to Avo Makdessian, Executive Director, First 5 Association of California
“This funding freeze is deeply troubling for critical programs that are lifelines for millions of children and families. Any delay or interruption in these programs jeopardizes the stability and well-being of vulnerable families already facing systemic barriers. While the details of the order remain unclear and continue to evolve, the First 5 Association is working closely with our advocacy partners to push for an immediate reversal of this harmful decision. Amid the cloud of uncertainty cast by this order, we call on California’s congressional members to intervene.”
Click here to download a PDF of this press release.
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About First 5 Association of California
The First 5 Association of California represents the state’s 58 county First 5 Commissions. Together, First 5 supports over one million children and families each year, advancing policies and investments that ensure young children are healthy, safe, and ready to learn.
