Funder's Network invests $8,000 in Early Childhood Outreach

The Northeast Iowa Funder's Network has awarded $8,000 to the NE Iowa Food and Fitness Initiative for early childhood outreach.

The Funder's Network is comprised of six community foundations from Allamakee, Clayton, Winneshiek, Fayette, Howard and Chickasaw counties.

The funds will be used to leverage the recent Wellmark Foundation MATCH Grant funding to expand the Farm to Preschool work in NE Iowa early childhood environments beyond Head Start including regional preschools and day cares.

The funds will enable FFI Early Childhood to support a part-time assistant position and supplies for parent and provider education. The program will engage and educate children, families and teachers with hands-on experiences regarding how to make better food choices and how to prevent health and social issues related to childhood obesity.