Early childhood education services in Lincoln are getting a big boost. A $4.5 million capital campaign is underway that will support renovations of the Community Action Head Start facility at 18th and K Street.
“The need for quality, affordable early childhood education services like those provided through Head Start is great,” says Heather Loughman, CEO of Community Action. “These programs empower children to become lifelong learners and independent thinkers.”
She says the fundraising campaign will allow them to create a home specifically designed to provide access to early childhood education to children age 5 years and under from at-risk backgrounds.
Renovations will include building new classrooms with easily accessible restrooms and handwashing sinks, indoor and outdoor play areas and spaces for support services offered to Head Start participants and other neighbors.
Former Lincoln City Council Member Carl Eskridge is chairing the volunteer fundraising effort. “Access to quality early childhood education for all is a Lincoln priority,” Eskridge says. “And this project is about ensuring children with the greatest barriers to success get everything they need in a learning environment to be ready for kindergarten and to reach their fullest potential.”
More than $2 million has already been received or pledged for the second phase of renovations at the facility. Community Action completed the first phase of improvements on the lower east portion of the facility in April. The second phase of improvements will be on the west and upper east portions of the facility and will begin in early 2023.
“The most important investment we can make is in our children, and every child deserves access to the supports they need to succeed,” Eskridge says. “I invite my fellow community members to join me in contributing to this project today for a stronger Lincoln tomorrow.”
To learn more about Community Action’s Home for Head Start or to support the campaign click here