Why Invest in Early Childhood?United Way's focus is on the building blocks of life - Education, Financial Stability, and Health - that's why we're committed to giving our Mid Coast children the best possible start in life. These Early Childhood strategies are aimed at prevention so that today's babies will grow into a healthy future full of positive opportunities.
It takes an entire community to make a difference. We all have a stake in making sure today's children get off to the best possible start. Join us. |
Our Strategies:
Giving babies the best start in life through parent support & home visiting programs. Building a more cohesive “system” for parenting supports, especially with access to home visiting services, with the support of the John T. Gorman Foundation, The Betterment Fund, Jane's Trust, local hospitals, and individual donors. See the research & read more about the Best Start Initiative.
|
One of our Success By 6 goals is "Children are read to from birth." Reading, singing, and telling stories to children early helps the brain synapses connect, helping build the foundations for future reading and success in school.
Get involved with the yearly Community Read Aloud in celebration of Dr. Seuss's birthday (on or around March 2nd) |
Diaper need is defined as the lack of a sufficient supply of diapers to remain clean, dry, and healthy. It can have multiple negative effects on baby and parent. And it exists here in Mid Coast Maine. The Diaper Project is raising awareness and funds to reduce diaper need. Read on for more information about diapers and how you can get involved.
|
Encouraging all parents to be brain builders with free activities for everyday moments. United Way volunteers took on the task of finding quality and cost effective resources for local parents. They trust the research behind Vroom and highly recommend it to all who interact with babies and young children. More about Vroom.
|
Babies and children are natural learners; this program encourages caretakers to see everyday activities as learning experiences. Get Born Learning resources. With the help of local organizations and volunteers, United Way installed Born Learning Trails in 4 locations in the community for all to use.
|
One of the goals identified by the Success by 6 council is access to high-quality child care for all children in the Mid Coast area. United Way funds scholarships and support for the following early education organizations: Family Focus, Coastal Kids, Bath Area Family Y, CLCYMCA, and Early Head Start.
|