To view this email as a webpage, click
[link removed]
here.
[link removed]
[link removed]
[link removed]
[link removed]
This February, Governor JB Pritzker’s budget proposal included only $6 million in increased funds in FY25 for the state’s Early Intervention (EI) program, which provides critical services to children who have or are at risk for significant developmental delays and disabilities, whereas a $40 million appropriation is needed to help ensure equitable access to necessary developmental services and supports that are known to dramatically improve a child’s lifelong trajectory.
[link removed]
Take action today to ensure that our youngest learners & the workforce that supports them have the funds they need!
Thousands of families are still waiting for the EI services to which they are legally entitled. Service delays are tied directly to the program’s ongoing workforce crisis. Despite the long-overdue funding increase this fiscal year, Early Intervention providers continue to leave the program because the math doesn’t add up. Last year’s Smart Start investment in EI was only the first step, there is a critical long-term investment needed.
[link removed]
Here are some ways to add your voice to those urging the IL General Assembly to ask for and approve a total of $40 million in additional funding for Early Intervention this spring:
-
[link removed]
Contact your legislators and share your support for additional funds for EI in the FY25 budget.
-
[link removed]
Sign the petition started by the EI Grassroots Alliance.
-
[link removed]
Join us for a Facebook Live conversation co-hosted with the IL Division of Early Childhood (DEC) on March 21 from 6:30-7:30 CT
-
[link removed]
Join us on April 16 in Springfield for Early Childhood Advocacy Day & speak with your legislators directly.
-
[link removed]
Check the Raising Illinois Action Center for more opportunities to take action!
Even if you’ve already contacted your lawmaker, please do so again! It will take all of us being in regular contact with our lawmakers to ensure that Early Intervention has the funding to alleviate the current crisis. Thank you in advance for helping make Illinois the best state in the nation in which to raise a child.
[link removed]
[link removed]
[link removed]
[link removed]
[link removed]
[link removed]
33 West Monroe Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60603 - 312.922.3863
(c)2024 Start Early
mailto:
[email protected]
[link removed]
Privacy Policy |
[link removed]
Fundraising Disclosures
[link removed]
[link removed] Action Alert_032024
Manage Subscription Preferences |
[link removed] Action Alert_032024
Unsubscribe
This link will update subscription preferences for
mailto:
[email protected]
[email protected] .
