Supporting Children Today Strengthens Peoria’s Future

Written by Nicole Yezzi with First Things First

The city of Peoria has a tremendous opportunity to strengthen its booming economy and it starts by investing in its youngest children today. Strong early childhood education helps children develop the skills they need to succeed in school, in life and eventually in the workforce. Working families also thrive when their children have access to affordable, reliable child care. It leads to employers having a stronger, more dependable talent pipeline.

During the first five years of life, a child’s brain grows faster than at any other time.  As Arizona’s early childhood agency, First Things First ensures babies, toddlers and preschoolers have access to early learning opportunities that build a strong foundation for lifelong success.

For nearly 20 years, First Things First has helped children prepare for kindergarten, supported working families and strengthened communities across Arizona. By ensuring sustainable funding for First Things First, communities, like Peoria, can continue to expand access to quality early childhood programs that benefit children, families, businesses and the economy.

One way to achieve that is by modernizing the agency’s funding source to include vapor and nicotine products. While consumer tobacco habits have changed, our commitment to Peoria’s youngest children should remain just as strong.

Business leaders and community members all play a role by supporting policies that strengthen early childhood programs. First Things First can help build a stronger workforce, a healthier economy and brighter futures for generations to come.

Learn more about how you can help: FirstThingsFirst.org/advocate.