The Ready by Five Early Childhood Millage supports programs through First Steps Kent, aimed at making sure children are as healthy as possible and ready to learn by the time they enter kindergarten.
Kent County voters approved the first millage in 2018 making it the only county in the state with dedicated funding for early childhood development through a millage. Now, supporters are hoping voters renew the .25 mill property tax for six more years in the August elections.
“The cost to an individual homeowner: if your house is valued at $300,000 which is roughly the median value in Kent County the cost is $37.50 a year or only $3.13 a month.”
Amy Turner-Thole is with the “Yes, Ready by Five” campaign promoting the benefits of programs such as home parenting support, prenatal services, developmental screenings and “play and learn” groups.
“Last year more than 14,000 young children and some expectant parents as well from every zip code in Kent County participated in millage-funded programs.”
First Steps Kent estimates a renewal would generate about $8.8 million dollars in the first year.
“Investing in this millage is really an investment in ready kids, strong families and a thriving community.”
First Steps Kent is an underwriter of WGVU Public Media.