PFC Impacts the Community 

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According to new data released by The North Carolina Partnership for Children, Inc. (NCPC), the number of Cumberland County children enrolled in high quality child care (programs with 4 or 5 stars) has increased to 41% compared to 27% in 2002. Moving the Needle takes people, processes and leadership. Quality early care and education aren't only educational priorities - they're economic priorities. Continued investment in quality early care and education for Cumberland County's young and vulnerable citizens, those ages 0-5, belongs on NC's Must-Do List.   

High Quality Child Care Facilities and Programs are an Urgent Need

There is no better investment in the future than efforts that help produce a well-educated workforce.  To achieve these goals, we must ensure that all children have access to high-quality child care from the start, and that the facilities where children are cared for meet high standards. Hard work pays off as child care facilities increase star ratings. “We are especially proud of the 19 child care facilities in Cumberland County that have obtained a four- or five-star rating this year and our 2,000 teachers that have increased their education in early childhood. We feel that high quality early care and education offer the best opportunity for our children to build a solid foundation for their future and our community,” said Eva Hansen, President of the Partnership.

Barnes & Noble and PFC Partnering to Close the Achievement Gap

The Partnership for Children teamed up with Barnes and Noble for the Barnes and Noble Holiday Book Drive. More than 2,601 books were collected and will be donated to 90 different child care facilities and nonprofits. Kim Nagowski, a PFC Board Member said, “Teaming up with Barnes & Noble is beneficial across the board. We hope that by delivering donated books into the hands of children who need them most, we will be helping to support early literacy efforts community wide.”

Call to Action - Be a Big Voice for Little Children

Early Childhood Education and Development systems in North Carolina are facing a tremendous crisis. Potential cuts could devastate child care subsidies, Smart Start, and More at Four. We cannot defer the cost of educating our children when times are tough.  Research shows that high-quality early care and education programs can save as much as $16 for every $1 invested because children who participate in these programs grow up to become better-educated and more productive workers, with far less remedial education or criminal costs to society.

The need for early childhood advocates has NEVER been greater, and without strong voices of support the results could be catastrophic.  Together, we can protect our families and children.  The 1st step to making a difference is to visit www.ccpfc.org where you can “sign up for updates.”