South Carolina has historically had one of the most criticized foster care systems in the country. There are thousands of children waiting to be adopted. Many others are not being properly cared for in their homes and in the system. One way to combat this is to make sure that children are provided with proper education and healthcare at a young age.
This week, South Carolina’s Department of Social Services received a much-needed boost to their funding. As part of the CARES act, they are set to receive close to $11 million in aid. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act is meant to help communities deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.
Overall, the federal government approved more than $450 million nationwide. This money is intended to be used to benefit children under the age of 5. In South Carolina, the Department of Social Services is going to designate this money to be used for their Head Start program.
The Head Start program provides nutrition, education and other services to kids in South Carolina under the age of 5. Many of these kids are not able to secure education, technology or even food without this program. Kids who are eligible will be enrolled in summer virtual learning programs. They will also engage in health screens, meals and pre-K education.
This money has come at the right time. With so many programs looking to safely reopen amidst the pandemic, it has been harder for the states to provide the necessary funding that programs like Head Start need.
If you are interested in adopting a child from the foster care system or have questions about these programs, call our office and talk to one of our helpful staff today.
Source: https://scnow.com/news/local/south-carolina-head-start-receives-nearly-11-million-in-cares-act-funds/article_62fa03a6-d0f5-11ea-b708-93f2012a6bd1.html
