First 5 in the News

Recent media coverage of First 5 programs, people, and activities around the state.

Guest column: Celebrating 25 years of First 5 Ventura County
VC Star / November 30, 2024

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.

State Senator Mike McGuire Appoints First 5 Humboldt’s Mary Ann Hansen to Early Childhood Policy Council
Lost Coast Outpost / November 19, 2024

“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.

Redding Chamber and First 5 Shasta host event educating on supportive childcare policies
KRCR / November 13, 2024

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.

Guest commentary: Early childhood investment helps the tri-county community thrive
Pacific Coast Business Times / October 10, 2024

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.

First 5 opens new resource centers for families
Enterprise-Record / August 17, 2024

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. 

First 5 Napa Unveils Imagination Station
Napa Valley Register / August 5, 2024

The Imagination Station is now open in the lobby of Self Sufficiency Services, where families go for food, medical and other assistance.

First 5 Shasta empowers local early childhood education providers using $250,000 grant
KRCR / June 18, 2024

Leaders with First 5 Shasta are helping our early childhood education professionals advocate for their rights.

Several Family Resource Centers to Close Across Santa Clara County
KQED / May 23, 2024

First 5 Santa Clara County, which oversees and allocates the local portion of tobacco tax funding in the Valley, has been adapting to the tax revenue decline by building new strategic plans.

Why So Few Children Are Getting Screened For Delays — And Tips For Parents
LAist / April 26, 2024

Only about 30% of children in the state’s Medi-Cal program were screened for developmental delays in the first three years of life in 2022.

Month of the Child and Child Abuse Prevention Month event held at Mission Plaza
KSBY / April 6, 2024

National Child Abuse Prevention Month and the Month of the Child recognize the importance of families and communities that work together to prevent child abuse and neglect while highlighting those who strive to meet the needs of the young children in their care.