Mayor Seaman to Announce Children and Families Initiative

The following is a press release from the City of Eureka:

On May 1, 2019 Eureka Mayor Susan Seaman will be announcing a new initiative at the Wharfinger Building from 6 to 8 p.m. The Children and Families Mayor’s Initiative is an approach to city business that strives to promote a healthy community, and economy, by supporting children and families.

This Kick-Off Meeting will be an opportunity to learn about the initiative with a majority of the time providing feedback to both child care leaders and city employees about the opportunities and needs that address the following focus areas: child care access, supporting our child care industry, parental and family support, neighborhood safety, enrichment activities, access to health care and healthy habits, and supporting diverse families

Seaman worked with leaders in the child care community to identify the focus areas. Representatives from Changing Tides, College of the Redwoods Early Childhood Education program, Eureka City Schools Preschool Programs, First Five, North Coast Children’s Services and others will be on hand to explain the connection between strong children and a healthy community.

The City of Eureka has already been incorporating many programs and policies that complement this initiative. This is an opportunity to recognize the work that is being done as well as identify new opportunities. City employees will also be on hand at the meeting to talk about City programs and to listen for ways they can be more engaged in issues surrounding families and children.

“There is plenty of well-documented research that shows that investing in young children promotes a stronger economy and can have a profound impact on social issues,” said Seaman. “Unfortunately, that information often gets passed around among the child care community and has difficulty breaking out to discussion among the general public. I don’t see this as an initiative just for people with children. It’s something that will affect people across the board, even those without kids. “

Pizza and refreshments will be served. Child Care will be provided on-site.