Books To Build Brighter Futures. Inspiring a love of reading from birth to age five by gifting the joy of early literacy—one book at a time.

The inclusion of day care centers is important, according to Francine Rodd, executive director of First 5 Monterey County, a countywide agency that supports early childhood development initiatives.

First 5 San Luis Obispo County is proud to announce a grant award from Uplift Central Coast to lead the formation of a Regionwide Child Care Coalition, comprised of six counties’ leading minds in child care innovation from Santa Cruz to Ventura.

Children regularly lose Medi-Cal coverage because of administrative errors. California’s plan to keep them enrolled evaporated when voters passed Proposition 35.

In an effort to address the Mono County’s continuing childcare shortage, First 5 Mono has adopted an Early Learning Care Policy outlining the County’s ongoing need to provide high-quality childcare for its youngest, and most impressionable and vulnerable residents.

For 25 years, First 5s across the state — including First 5 Ventura County — have focused on improving the health and education of our youngest Californians, from prenatal through age 5.

“Mary Ann Hansen is an exceptional and effective leader. No one works harder on behalf of our kids and she will bring passion and dedication to the Early Childhood Policy Council,” Pro Tem McGuire said.

First 5 Shasta and the Redding Chamber of Commerce hosted a community luncheon on Nov. 13 at C.R. Gibbs American Grille on Hilltop Drive, focused on the importance of having family- friendly policies for workers.

First 5 Ventura County, First 5 San Luis Obispo County, and First 5 Santa Barbara County, focus on improving access to quality childcare, supporting families, and enhancing early education to ensure that children thrive and are prepared for school, ultimately benefiting the entire community.

The Oroville center is funded by Proposition 10 tobacco tax dollars through First 5 Butte County Children and Families Commission and operated by Northern Valley Catholic Social Services.