FIRST 5 Santa Clara County is proud to announce a $1 million investment to launch the Standing Firm for Families initiative, a bold, comprehensive strategy created to support young children and their families in the face of today’s most pressing challenges. Originally designed to address the urgent impacts on the immigrant community, the initiative has taken on even greater importance as recent federal reductions to critical safety net programs like Medicaid and SNAP have further intensified the needs of families with children prenatal through 5 years of age.
“Standing Firm for Families reflects FIRST 5 Santa Clara County’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of young children and their families in the face of shifting policy landscapes,” says Jennifer Kelleher Cloyd, Executive Director. “When federal programs are cut, our community does not stand still. We step forward—with resolve and with resources—to protect the health, stability, and future of children and families who depend on us.”
The initiative takes a coordinated, multi-pronged approach, ensuring both immediate relief and long-term resilience. Funding will be distributed through community partners and local organizations across the following areas:
- Wellness Supports: To strengthen access to services that promote health and well-being for our frontline providers.
- Emergency Funds: To provide immediate assistance for urgent family needs.
- Family Preparedness: To help families build long-term stability and resilience.
- Flexible Reserve: To adapt to emerging priorities.
The initiative will launch in phases, with applications for funding opportunities opening soon. Funding will be awarded to local organizations through a thoughtful and streamlined application process. By investing in trusted organizations with the infrastructure and expertise to deliver services, we ensure young children and their families get the right help at the right time while strengthening the long-term capacity of the community.
At a time when too many families risk falling through the cracks, Standing Firm for Families ensures that our community continues to prioritize health, stability, and equity for all. Together, we are standing firm—for families, for equity, and for the future of Santa Clara County.
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