On Wednesday, March 11, 2026, Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) announced $4.3 million in Federal funding [will be] awarded to SAL Family and Community Services, to support early childhood education and care for families in the Quad Cities region. Awarded through the Early Head Start-Child Care Partnerships program at the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, this funding will help expand access to high-quality infant and toddler care, for families in Rock Island, Mercer, and Henry Counties.
“This investment helps make sure families in our communities have access to safe, high-quality care for their youngest children,” said Congressman Sorensen. “Programs like Early Head Start give kids a strong start and help parents keep working, knowing their children are in a supportive learning environment. I am proud to see this Federal funding supporting families across the Quad Cities.”
The $4,315,213 grant will allow SAL Family and Community Services to continue providing Early Head Start Child Care Partnership services to 168 children and their families across the region.
“This is very exciting to be awarded again our Early Head Start Child Care Partnership grant,” said Marcy Mendenhall, President and CEO of SAL Family and Community Services. “I am thrilled to continue to bring high quality infant and toddler care to our communities.”