Families Thank Town For Preschool Program Funding

CHATHAM – “Receiving this generous funding is a main reason I have been able to remain living in Chatham near my family.”

 “Your support has eased a real burden for many of us, and it is truly appreciated.”

 “Our son attends the Rocking Unicorn Nursery School, and because of your financial support, his tuition is drastically reduced — an absolute blessing.”

 Those are just a few of the hand-written messages sent to the select board from recipients of grants under the town’s Dr. Florence Seldin Family Support Program.

 Select board member Shareen Davis asked that the letters be part of the board’s Jan. 6 agenda to highlight how the program has helped local residents. Mrs. Seldin would have been “thrilled” to read the letters, chair Dean Nicastro added.

 “This is a prime example of the kind of creative financial support we can provide our community, especially our younger community,” said vice chair Jeffrey Dykens. “This is the type of creative thinking we need to continue to bring to bear.”

 The program provides $5,000 for 3-year-olds and $10,000 for 4-year-olds annually. The money is paid directly to child care and early education providers. This year, 17 children are enrolled in the program and attend various preschools in and around Chatham, according to the town. 

 Town meeting approved $425,000 to begin the program in 2022, said Town Manager Jill Goldsmith, and has supplemented the program with additional funds annually. About $130,000 was expended through the program this year, leaving about $200,000 remaining. Voters are likely to allocate additional money at May’s annual town meeting.

 The only requirement to qualify for the funding is Chatham residency and proof of a child’s age, said communications coordinator Shanna Nealy. The original intent, she added, was to provide financial relief to young families by funding universal childcare and pre-K education.

 “It’s wonderfully reassuring that our town leaders prioritize education and equity,” another of the letters read. “This initiative is a tremendous gift to families in our community, and we want to express our sincere thanks.”

 “We love raising our kids in Chatham and this funding helps us do that!” read another.