Congressman Sanford D. Bishop Jr. (GA-02) is happy to announce that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is awarding $6,134,765 to the Macon-Bibb County Economic Opportunity Council, $7,186,306 to the Fort Valley State University, and $705,440 to the Enrichment Services Program, Inc. in Columbus, GA to support their Head Start programs. The Head Start program supports disadvantaged families by providing early learning and development, health, and well-being to newborns and children up to five years of age.

“The years leading up to primary school are crucial in setting children up to be successful throughout their education and eventually finding good-paying jobs. The Head Start program enriches youngsters by providing a quality preschool experience, while also providing working parents with affordable, reliable childcare,” said Congressman Bishop. “It is so important that these funds are made available to dependable organizations in every community to support for family activities and childhood development.”

“The funds provided will be utilized to purchase a facility that will serve over 160 children in the Chattahoochee Valley. And with this purchase it will allow us to provide a safe location for children to gain school readiness skills and set them up to be successful in school and life,” said Enrichment Services Program, Inc. CEO Belva Dorsey-Mott. “We thank Congressman Bishop for his ongoing support to ensure that funds are available to help children prepare for school and support families which are the foundation for strong communities.”

“This is exciting news, and we are very honored to have been named recipient of this federal grant award,” said Ms. Sarita R. Hill, Chief Executive Officer of the Macon-Bibb County Economic Opportunity Council. “This substantial funding is designated for the construction of our new Head Start building in Macon, tentatively scheduled for completion in December 2025. The 32,000 sq. ft. building will provide 24 classrooms that will accommodate up to 384 children. This will have a meaningful impact on the many lives of those we support by increasing the invaluable services provided by Head Start and Early Head Start programs.”

“Fort Valley State University's Head Start program will create a safe and innovative learning environment that empowers families, supports mental health, and promotes school readiness.” Said Ms. Nikkia Mosley, Executive Program Director at Fort Valley State University. “Together, we will make a lasting impact on our community and foster the growth and well-being of every child."

Head Start and Early Head Start programs across Middle and Southwest Georgia provide comprehensive, high-quality family and community services to eligible children. Head Start programs help prepare young children, infants to school aged, to succeed in school and throughout the rest of their lives through individualized learning experiences in a creative environment.

Congressman Bishop is a strong supporter of the Head Start Program. As a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, he has worked to establish substantial funding that meets the changing needs of the program each year.