Menendez Announces Nearly $10 Million in Grant Funding for Early Childhood Education
JERSEY CITY, N.J. - Today, Congressman Rob Menendez (NJ-08) announced grant funding totaling more than $9.8 million for Head Start and early childhood education programs in Hudson County.
The funding, provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, will be provided to HOPES Community Action Partnership and the North Hudson Community Action Corporation, both of which serve expectant mothers, children, and families throughout Hudson County.
“Head Start and early childhood education are vital to our communities, giving every family and every child the opportunity to grow and thrive,” said Congressman Menendez. “Organizations like North Hudson Community Action Corporation and HOPES Community Action Partnership are leading these efforts in Hudson County, and this grant funding will ensure that they can continue fulfilling this important mission. I’m proud to support their work and will continue to be a voice for them in Congress.”
“Funding for Early Head Start and Head Start is more than an investment in programs—it’s an investment in brighter futures,” said Joselyn Estevez-Vargas, Vice President of Early Childhood Programs at HOPES Community Action Partnership. “It ensures that infants, toddlers, and preschoolers receive high-quality early education, health services, and emotional support during the most critical years of development. For families, it provides tools, resources, and opportunities to grow alongside their children, fostering resilience and stability. And for communities, it lays the foundation for long-term success by promoting equity, reducing generational poverty, and cultivating a strong, educated, and empowered citizenry. The ripple effect of this investment reaches far beyond the classroom—transforming lives and building stronger, healthier communities for the future.”
“This funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with the support of Congressman Rob Menendez, will directly help our neighbors and families,” said Giovanni D. Ahmad, Chairman of the North Hudson Community Action Corporation. “As Chairman of NHCAC and a resident of this community, I know how important it is for people to get care when they need it. Healthcare isn’t a luxury; it’s a basic need. This support not only protects their health and dignity but also paves the way for a brighter future for our community.
Congressman Menendez has proudly represented New Jersey’s Eighth Congressional District since 2023. He is a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee and is a member of the Congressional Dads Caucus. To learn more about his work, click here.