Help for low-income children expands to SLV, SV

While many nonprofits reduce their services and consolidate operations, one children’s program in Santa Cruz County is growing.
Riding an expansion grant from the Obama administration, Early Head Start and Head Start — both of which serve low-income children from infancy to age 5 — will begin helping families in Scotts Valley and the San Lorenzo Valley.
The Home Visitor Program, the first part of the expansion, joins low-income families with people who stop by their homes to teach parents how to teach their children, even with limited resources. In 1½ hour visits each week, home visitors help parents connect with other agencies and give tips on ways to help young children learn.
“We believe parents are the first and No. 1 teachers,” home visitor Katherine Sloan said. “We want to help strengthen the family.”
Head Start already serves the south end of the county, including Live Oak and Watsonville. The federal grant allows the move to Scotts Valley and San Lorenzo Valley.
“For right now, it’s just home visiting, to see how the community feels about the services we offer,” Sloan said.
To spread the word, the agency will host a fair Sunday, Aug. 29, at Highlands Park in Ben Lomond. A free catered lunch from Mama Mia’s, an “infant oasis,” rocking chairs, changing tables and more will be part of the carnival.
Head Start has existed nationwide since the 1960s, Sloan said.
“A lot of people think they have to go to Santa Cruz for these services,” Sloan said. “There are resources for them locally.”
At a glance
What: Head Start Children’s Carnival
When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 29
Where: Highlands Park, 8500 Highway 9, in Ben Lomond
Details: Katherine Sloan, 469-1700, ext. 143