Press Releases

 Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright announced that Scranton Lackawanna Human Development Agency’s (SLHDA) Head Start Programs received $8,627,060 in federal funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

Head Start programs provide children with education services focused on early learning, health, and family well-being. These programs promote children’s growth and development, and give parents an opportunity to become actively engaged in their child’s education.

“Early childhood education is one of the most important investments our country can make,” said Rep. Cartwright, a member of the Appropriations Committee. “A strong educational foundation not only brightens each child’s future potential, it is also vital to strengthening our economy. That is why I will continue to advocate for adequately funding the Early Childhood Education programs.”

With this renewed funding, Scranton Lackawanna Human Development Agency's Head Start/Early Head Start Early Learning Program will serve 167 infants and toddlers and 586 preschool children and their families in both center-based and home-based options, preparing children for success in school, engaging parents in their child's learning, and helping parents achieve their education, literacy and employment goals toward economic stability, said Linda Prutisto, Director SLHDA Head Start. “SLHDA’s Head Start/Early Head Start services communities in Lackawanna, Wayne, and Pike Counties.

Head Start services are funded and overseen by The Office of Head Start (OHS), within the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), a division of the Department of Health & Human Services. The AFC promotes the economic and social well-being of children, families, individuals, and communities with leadership and resources for compassionate, effective delivery of human services.