WASHINGTON, D.C. – May 8, 2013 – (RealEstateRama) — Head Start providers impacted by Hurricane Sandy can now apply for a total of $95 million in recovery aid to help renovate, repair and rebuild damaged Head Start centers. Funds can also be used to temporarily enhance Head Start program services to address the increased social, health and mental health needs of Head Start families impacted by Hurricane Sandy.
“Head Start has always played a critical role in providing care, safety and essential resources to our most vulnerable children,” said Office of Head Start Director Yvette Sanchez-Fuentes. “In the wake of Hurricane Sandy, these children are even more vulnerable and the need for these services is even more critical.
The Office of Head Start at HHS’ Administration for Children and Families is working closely with affected grantees to help develop comprehensive recovery plans. Grantees are also partnering with local, state and federal service providers to leverage existing services and expand where needed. The Office of Head Start will provide rigorous oversight to ensure these relief funds are spent appropriately, and not duplicating commercial or self-insurance proceeds or emergency funds received from other sources.
“Head Start has always had a shared commitment to the communities we serve and our dedication to our affected communities is even stronger,” said Sanchez-Fuentes. “Parents have told me that when they were finally able to use their phones after the storm, they were surprised to have messages from their local Head Start providers checking to make sure they were okay.”
For more information on Head Start, please visit http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ohs/.
