Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley is leaning into early childhood education as a priority for the community's future. Selected for The Hunt Institute’s Early Learning Nation Fellowship, Crowley joins a cohort set to elevate the importance of childhood development programs in their local areas. Acknowledging the impact of such initiatives, Crowley stated, "We know providing children a strong start in life will contribute to their future success," in a release reported by Milwaukee County Government.
With the fellowship’s backing, Milwaukee is poised to become a fixture on the map for its investment in the well-being of its youngest residents. Holding a belief that a robust early childhood system is the antidote to economic and health disparities, the County Executive said, "I believe it’s critically important to invest in early childhood development and education to make sure Milwaukee County families have the support needed to realize the bright futures they all deserve." According to a recent announcement by Milwaukee County Government, six local organizations are lined up to receive $800,000 to realize this mission with grants from federal funding awarded in April.
These organizations, including Jewish Family Services and Penfield Children’s Center, are spearheading innovative programs aimed to fortify the support structures for parents, infants, and children within the community. Stressing the value of such programs and initiatives, Crowley told Milwaukee County Government, "I will continue to support programs and initiatives that uplift the health, safety, and development of Milwaukee children and families."
In a move celebrated by many, Crowley’s administration further dispensed with an age-old burden on fathers by repealing Birth Cost Recovery. Having cost Milwaukee County families $67 million in birth costs, Crowley characterized this old practice as outdated, and by eliminating it, families are now spared a financial difficulty that provides fathers with more money to support their children and families.
