This week, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, D-Fla., announced that Luthern Services Florida (LSF) will get $6,122,491 in federal funds.
The money comes from a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Head Start Emergency Supplemental grant which was approved through the “American Rescue Plan,” the $1.9 federal stimulus passed by Congress and signed into law by President Joe Biden at the end of March.
“Here in Tampa, Head Start has equipped countless children with the skills needed to succeed in school and move onto meaningful employment opportunities while providing parents with resources to reach their financial and educational goals. Lutheran Services Florida has been an invaluable partner in helping Florida families reach their full potential through Head Start over the years, and I’m proud to announce this $6 million grant through the American Rescue Plan. The Covid-19 pandemic has only underscored the urgent needs of local families, and these funds will allow LSF to expand their services to even more of our neighbors. LSF is a lifeline to so many in Florida, and I’m grateful that these federal funds are available to buoy their critical efforts to get children back in school and support the well-being of parents in the months ahead,” said Castor.
“The first five years of a child’s life are absolutely essential in preparing them for a healthy, happy, and successful future. We are serving less children because of the pandemic and these funds will help us reach more families as we focus on enrollment and re-enrollment for the upcoming school year. The funds also allow us to address families’ economic security as we partner with them on employment, education and career goals. Our federal partnerships are critical and we appreciate the support of Congresswoman Castor in investing in safe and high-quality learning opportunities for children,” said LSF Executive Vice President of Children and Head Start Services Bob Bialas.
First elected to Congress in 2006, Castor is one of the top Democrats on the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee which oversees health policy among other things. Castor represents parts of Hillsborough County in a secure Democratic district. Back in November, Castor easily handled Christine Quinn, taking more than 60 percent of the vote. Castor is the chairwoman of the U.S. House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis.
Reach Kevin Derby at kevin.derby@floridadaily.com.
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