Rep. Jim Costa Announces $45 Million for Fresno and Tulare Counties’ Head Start Programs

WASHINGTON – Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) announced $45 million in federal funding to support Head Start and Early Head Start programs in Fresno and Tulare counties.

"These investments level the playing field and empower children to thrive in school. Investing in Head Start is an investment in our children’s future - because when our children succeed, America succeeds,” said Costa.

Head Start promotes the school readiness of children from birth to age five from underserved families by enhancing their cognitive, social, and emotional development.

The entities awarded federal funding by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, include: 

• Fresno County: $23.2 million for the Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission (EOC)

• Tulare County: $22.8 million for the Tulare County Office of Education.

Last month, Costa helped secure a $1 billion increase in federal funding, bringing it to a total of $12.3 billion for Head Start and Early Head Start programs as part of the Fiscal Year 2024 budget. In addition, $275 million was allocated for a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), which amounts to a COLA of nearly 2.3% for Head Start staff.