◈ Homepage — http://www.first5alameda.org/Skip to main content News Our Leadership Search ABOUT US FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES TOOLS + RESOURCES TRAININGS + PUBLIC MEETINGS Every child in Alameda County can reach their greatest potential Every child in Alameda County can reach their greatest potential We create progress by strengthening systems We work to ensure that policies, systems, communities, and schools support families 
and children by creating the conditions that position all for success. OUR WORK Measure C 5-Year Plan On June 10, the Alameda County Board of Supervisors voted to approve First 5’s Measure C 5-Year Plan, unlocking urgently needed funds. Over the next five years, Measure C provides nearly a billion dollars to support kids and families. READ NOW FIND TOOLS AND RESOURCES FOR YOU: Communities Families Providers Resources COMMISSION COMMUNITY DATA MEMO REPORTS RESOURCE VIDEOS SEARCH Neighborhoods Ready for School Grantee Data Sheets These data sheets provide key details about each neighborhood served and the impact of Neighborhoods Ready for School grantees work. VIEW RESOURCE Neighborhoods Ready for School Grantee Workplans These four-year strategic workplans help identify how each of the four Neighborhoods Ready for School Initiative grantees will reach their strategic goals. VIEW RESOURCE 2025-26 Data for Action Guide The Data for Action 2026 shines a light on the conditions shaping children’s early childhood experiences across Alameda County. DOWNLOAD GUIDE Federal Update: Status of Child Care Funding Freeze Litigation In January 2026, the federal government announced a freeze on federal child care funding streams that support children in California and other states. For Alameda County, these funds help support child care and social services for thousands of families. The funding freeze was blocked from going into affect by a federal court. We are actively monitoring developments and will continue to share updates in this memo as more information becomes available. DOWNLOAD TO LEARN MORE West Ed Report: Oakland Children’s Initiative Listening Sessions DOWNLOAD REPORT Funding Opportunities Tools + Resources News ALL NEWS MAR 9, 2026 Updates and Next Steps for Family Resource Center RFP Announced Read on for an update and information on next steps related to the Family Resource Center RFP. READ MORE MAR 3, 2026 First 5 Alameda County Celebrates $112 Million in Awarded Measure C Investments  READ MORE DEC 17, 2025 First 5 Alameda County Distributes Over $8 Million in First Wave of Critical Relief Funds for Historically Underpaid Caregivers READ MORE We help young children grow up healthy and ready to learn We have more than two decades of experience funding innovative programs and advocating for policies that produce better futures for our children. First 5 Alameda County is an innovative public entity created by passage of Proposition 10 in 1998. ABOUT US STAY UPDATED WITH OUR NEWSLETTER Name Email SIGN UP Every extra year of exposure
to a positive childhood environment makes a significant impact on long-term outcomes. Dr. Raj Chetty, William A. Ackman Professor of Economics at Harvard University 1115 Atlantic Ave Alameda, CA 94501 510.227.6900 Directions About Us Commission Community Advisory Council (Measure C) Funding Opportunities Careers Media Kit Trainings News High 5 Privacy Statement FOLLOW US STAY UPDATED WITH OUR NEWSLETTER Name Email SIGN UP © First 5 Alameda County, 2025 | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy Site by EN ◈ Interior Pages — 10 pages crawledTax Funded Work | First 5 Alameda County Skip to main content News Our Leadership Search Search for: About Us Our Approach Our Work Kindergarten Readiness Policy + Advocacy Tax Funded Work Partnerships Strategic Plan Annual Report Programs + Initiatives Fathers Corps Quality Counts Help Me Grow Measure C Project DULCE Measure C 5-Year Plan Neighborhoods Ready for School Oakland Children’s Initiative Funding Opportunities Tools + Resources Resource Library Parent Resources Provider Resources Trainings + Public Meetings Trainings First 5 Commission Community Advisory Council About Us Our Work Tax Funded Work We administer public funds to support programs and initiatives for young children and families. We administer public funds Alameda County’s early childhood care and education system has been fragmented and underfunded for years—but Alameda County cares about young people. Most of First 5’s work was originally funded by Proposition 10, a voter-approved tobacco tax passed in 1998. Because fewer people buy tobacco products each year, Prop 10 revenue has steadily declined. But, Alameda County residents have continued supporting early care and education through local funding measures. Our role as administrators Because our community cares about children, they voted in favor of new local funding to help kids and their families thrive. Thanks to these resources, we now have opportunity to address longstanding inequities and transform the early care and education system in Alameda County. These two ballot measures are: The Children’s Health & Child Care Initiative for Alameda County (Measure C) and the Oakland Children’s Initiative (Measure AA). The Children’s Health & Child Care Initiative for Alameda County (Measure C) This countywide sales tax measure was passed by voters in March 2020 and names First 5 Alameda County as the administrator of the child care, preschool, and early education account (80% of total revenues). Measure C was upheld by the courts in April 2024 and is expected to raise approximately $150M annually for early care and education—funds which will enable us to help child care providers stay open, increase the supply of child care, fund new parks and playgrounds, support early developmental screening for children, and so much more. LEARN MORE Oakland Children’s Initiative (Measure AA) Passed in November 2018 and upheld by the courts in 2021, Measure AA is funded by a City of Oakland parcel tax and projected to provide about $30 million in annual funding for early education and college access programs for Oakland residents. In December 2022, First 5 Alameda County was awarded the contract to serve as the Initiative’s Early Education Implementation Partner. LEARN MORE The early years matter most And we’re expanding access to high-quality early care and education California continues to make strides toward ensuring every child receives the care and education they need. It’s our job as administrators of these local tax dollars to make sure providers and families don’t miss out on critical opportunities. Funding Opportunities Community Programs News All News Mar 9, 2026 Updates and Next Steps for Family Resource Center RFP Announced Read on for an update and information on next steps related to the Family Resource Center RFP. Read More Mar 3, 2026 First 5 Alameda County Celebrates $112 Million in Awarded Measure C Investments Read More Dec 17, 2025 First 5 Alameda County Distributes Over $8 Million in First Wave of Critical Relief Funds for Historically Underpaid Caregivers Read More With the children…it’s like planting a seed and watching it grow. So being able to see every leaf, every branch, every color that comes out of each one of the children that you work with. Tracie Mason Child care provider 1115 Atlantic Ave Alameda, CA 94501 510.227.6900 Directions About Us Commission Community Advisory Council (Measure C) Funding Opportunities Careers Media Kit Trainings News High 5 Privacy Statement Follow Us Stay updated with our newsletter Instagram This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Name Email Sign Up © First 5 Alameda County, 2025 | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy Site by Community Advisory Council | First 5 Alameda County Skip to main content News Our Leadership Search Search for: About Us Our Approach Our Work Kindergarten Readiness Policy + Advocacy Tax Funded Work Partnerships Strategic Plan Annual Report Programs + Initiatives Fathers Corps Quality Counts Help Me Grow Measure C Project DULCE Measure C 5-Year Plan Neighborhoods Ready for School Oakland Children’s Initiative Funding Opportunities Tools + Resources Resource Library Parent Resources Provider Resources Trainings + Public Meetings Trainings First 5 Commission Community Advisory Council Community Advisory Council An 11-member volunteer advisory body that informs recommendations and program design for the Child Care, Preschool, and Early Education (CCPEE) account of Measure C. Join us at the next meeting The Measure C Community Advisory Council (CAC), an 11-member volunteer advisory body, provides recommendations to First 5 Alameda County on its administration of the Measure C Child Care, Preschool, and Early Education (CCPEE) account. CAC members are selected and appointed by the Alameda County Board of Supervisors and the Alameda County Early Care & Education Planning Council (Local Planning Council) based on the expertise as specified in the Measure C Ordinance . about Measure C 2026 Meeting Calendar First 5 Alameda County holds the Community Advisory Council’s public meetings in Alameda County. See below for information about upcoming meetings, agenda, and how to attend the Council’s meetings Meeting times, format (in person or teleconference), and locations are subject to change. Please be sure to check the posted agenda for final meeting details. Download 2026 Meeting Calendar Interpretation services are available in Spanish and Cantonese unless otherwise noted. For members of the public attending a CAC meeting in person, there are a limited number of electronic devices available to assist in live interpretation. However, members of the public can also access interpretation services via personal cell phone and headset. Onsite child care will be provided for all meetings through May 2025. QUESTIONS? If you have questions or if you need language interpretation support in a language other than Spanish or Cantonese, please contact Evelyn Navarro at  [email protected]  or (510) 279-6350 at least 7 business days before the scheduled meeting. DATE & TIME LOCATION AGENDA Wednesday, May 6, 2026 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Hybrid First 5 Alameda County Conference Center 1115 ATLANTIC AVENUE ALAMEDA, CA 94501 Zoom Webinar ID: 856 7315 6658 Passcode: 141290 Link: https://first5alameda-org.zoom.us/j/85673156658?pwd=nt0z6c2Sr68MWWxDkZwZTKOKWgbpte.1                                                                                     Agenda Agenda (Spanish) Agenda (Chinese) Meeting Book ( Revised May 6, 2026) In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and upon request, if you need special assistance to participate in a CAC meeting, including interpreter services, please contact Evelyn Navarro at [email protected] or (510) 279-6350 as early as possible but at least 7 business days before the scheduled Community Advisory Council meeting so First 5 can make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility. Times indicated are estimates and subject to change . Meet the Community Advisory Council The Community Advisory Council is comprised of members Mitch Sigman, Robert Williams, Kym Johnson, Savitha Moorthy, Paulene McCarthy, Maéva Renaud, Tracey Black, Nancy Harvey, Heidi Gerard, Bry’Anna Wallace, and David Padilla. View roster Archive of Meeting Materials Filter Search Meeting Type Date Language Filter Search Meeting Type Date Language Apr 20, 2017 April 20, 2017 Commission Resolution on Immigration Click here to download the resolution. Read More Feb 13, 2020 2-13-20 Executive Committee Meeting Book Download Meeting Book Read More Apr 9, 2020 4-9-20 Executive Committee Meeting Book Download Meeting Book Read More Jun 11, 2020 6-11-20 Executive Committee Meeting Book Download Meeting Book Read More Jun 18, 2020 June 18, 2020 Commission Resolution on Equity and Justice Click here to download the resolution. Read More We are the foundation for California. Child care keeps California working. Nancy Harvey, Child care provider 1115 Atlantic Ave Alameda, CA 94501 510.227.6900 Directions About Us Commission Community Advisory Council (Measure C) Funding Opportunities Careers Media Kit Trainings News High 5 Privacy Statement Follow Us Stay updated with our newsletter X/Twitter This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Name Email Sign Up © First 5 Alameda County, 2025 | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy Site by Neighborhoods | First 5 Alameda County Skip to main content News Our Leadership Search Search for: About Us Our Approach Our Work Kindergarten Readiness Policy + Advocacy Tax Funded Work Partnerships Strategic Plan Annual Report Programs + Initiatives Fathers Corps Quality Counts Help Me Grow Measure C Project DULCE Measure C 5-Year Plan Neighborhoods Ready for School Oakland Children’s Initiative Funding Opportunities Tools + Resources Resource Library Parent Resources Provider Resources Trainings + Public Meetings Trainings First 5 Commission Community Advisory Council About Us Strategic Plan Neighborhoods Ready for School At a glance Since 2018, First 5 Alameda County has invested over $3 million in Neighborhoods Ready for School each year. Between 2023-2024, this investment resulted in: 2,343+ parents/caregivers supported 82 community-based organizations engaged Thriving neighborhoods are an essential component of an early childhood system First 5’s Neighborhoods Ready for School (NRFS) strategy is a place-based investment, asset building, and policy response to the relationship and interplay between neighborhood conditions, family and child well-being, and the structural factors that contribute to overall health, development, and kindergarten readiness.     We partner with community-based organizations and public system partners that serve low-income families, English-language learners, children of color, children with disabilities and medical issues, and fathers in neighborhoods that have been historically underserved due to racist, classist systems and policies. Our current grantee partners include the San Antonio Family Resource Center (EBAYC, Lotus Bloom, Trybe, and ALL IN Alameda County),  Mandela Family Resource Center  (Lincoln),  Roots Community Health Center , and  Union City Family Center . Program components include: Family leadership opportunities and civic engagement Coordination, navigation, and location of programs and services Early child school programs and services Economic resources and financial support Video: Neighborhoods Ready for School Video: Roots Community Health Center Video: San Antonio Family Resource Center Video: Union City Family Center See All Funding Opportunities Tools + Resources Related Resources More Resources Neighborhoods Ready for School Grantee Workplans These four-year strategic workplans help identify how each of the four Neighborhoods Ready for School Initiative grantees will reach their strategic goals. View resource Neighborhoods Ready for School Grantee Data Sheets These data sheets provide key details about each neighborhood served and the impact of Neighborhoods Ready for School grantees work. View resource Evaluation: Neighborhoods Ready For School The cross-site evaluation is a tool to capture the outcomes and impact of the Neighborhoods Ready for School strategy to inform First 5 Alameda County’s ongoing investment and broader advocacy around community-led, place-based investments to support young children, their families, and their neighborhoods. Program evaluation How Parks and Green Space Support School Readiness Access to safe and well-maintained parks with their green spaces and recreation amenities is a recognized path to disrupting systemic health inequities and promoting wellness. Learn more Stories of progress 2025 Data for Action Guide provides early childhood context for partners and decision-makers In December, we published the 2025 Data for Action Guide, as part of the agency’s Annual Report.  This guide provides a… Read More First 5 Supports Neighborhoods Ready for School Initiative Strategic Planning Kindergarten readiness is the vision and goal of a robust early childhood system, and to that end, we are proud… Read More Strengthening system partnerships through collaborative investments in diaper distribution program Meeting families’ concrete basic needs, especially diapers, is a high priority for First 5, our community partners, and families with… Read More There is an undeniable connection between neighborhood, family, and child wellbeing. We all do better and feel better if we experience a sense of well-being and belonging. Children succeed in loving families, families succeed in supportive communities, and communities have the answers. Allison Becwar, President & CEO, Lincoln Families 1115 Atlantic Ave Alameda, CA 94501 510.227.6900 Directions About Us Commission Community Advisory Council (Measure C) Funding Opportunities Careers Media Kit Trainings News High 5 Privacy Statement Follow Us Stay updated with our newsletter Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Name Email Sign Up © First 5 Alameda County, 2025 | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy Site by Strategic Plan | First 5 Alameda County Skip to main content News Our Leadership Search Search for: About Us Our Approach Our Work Kindergarten Readiness Policy + Advocacy Tax Funded Work Partnerships Strategic Plan Annual Report Programs + Initiatives Fathers Corps Quality Counts Help Me Grow Measure C Project DULCE Measure C 5-Year Plan Neighborhoods Ready for School Oakland Children’s Initiative Funding Opportunities Tools + Resources Resource Library Parent Resources Provider Resources Trainings + Public Meetings Trainings First 5 Commission Community Advisory Council About Us Strategic Plan Where we’re focused Every First 5 agency in California offers a unique set of services to improve early childhood development at the county level. In Alameda County, we’re focused on one major benchmark: children are ready for kindergarten, a marker for academic success. Guided by community data, our investments support the intersections between early childhood development, community and family conditions, and lifelong health. 5-year strategic plan How we promote the health and well-being of children and families Supporting children through a network of agencies and community organizations that provide child care services; enabling children to begin school healthy, ready and able to learn, and emotionally well-developed. Strengthening families by providing supports that enhance resilience and well-being, such as connecting families to resources and strengthening parenting knowledge and skills. Supporting professionals through access to up-to-date information, opportunities to develop new skills, and network-building so that child care providers can support one another. Advocating and communicating to affect policy by promoting, communicating about, and advocating for policies that affect the health and well-being of children during their most critical years of development. Our current strategies Program strategies Early care & education (ECE) We provide support for centers, family child care (FCC) providers, and family, friend, and neighbor (FFN) providers. We help improve the quality of their services through coaching, training, professional development, technical assistance, and financial incentives and supports; and by funding community-based programming for children who are not in a licensed early educational setting. Learn more . Neighborhoods Ready for School With this place-based investment, we focus on asset building and policy response informed by the relationship between neighborhood conditions, family and child well-being, and structural factors that contribute to overall health, development, and kindergarten readiness. Learn more . Pediatric Care Coordination We strengthen public system and community resources to engage, assess, and connect children (with a focus on Medi-Cal-enrolled families) to pediatric preventative care, medically necessary services, and community-based programming and support. Learn more. Parent Partnership Using parent leadership to inform programming and investments, we provide direct services to families and children with a focus on the health of birthing people and children 0-3 years. Fatherhood Through training, strategic messaging, and high-quality father-centered services in collaboration with public systems and community-based organizations, we increase the representation and improve the experiences of men, fathers, and father-figures. Learn more. Agency strategies Data and Evaluation We support shared accountability, ongoing organizational learning, public awareness, and policy advocacy as part of our role in evolving the early childhood system. Learn more. Policy and advocacy To build and evolve an equity-centered early childhood system, we put analysis, data, and coalitions to work and advocate for effective programs and public policies grounded in equity and justice. Learn more . Training We provide and facilitate trainings to foster a diverse, capable provider workforce and create awareness of—and leadership within—the core components of the early childhood system. Learn more . News All News Mar 9, 2026 Updates and Next Steps for Family Resource Center RFP Announced Read on for an update and information on next steps related to the Family Resource Center RFP. Read More Mar 3, 2026 First 5 Alameda County Celebrates $112 Million in Awarded Measure C Investments Read More Dec 17, 2025 First 5 Alameda County Distributes Over $8 Million in First Wave of Critical Relief Funds for Historically Underpaid Caregivers Read More Every extra year of exposure to a positive childhood environment makes a significant impact on long-term outcomes. Dr. Raj Chetty, William A. Ackman Professor of Economics at Harvard University 1115 Atlantic Ave Alameda, CA 94501 510.227.6900 Directions About Us Commission Community Advisory Council (Measure C) Funding Opportunities Careers Media Kit Trainings News High 5 Privacy Statement Follow Us Stay updated with our newsletter Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Name Email Sign Up © First 5 Alameda County, 2025 | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy Site by Project DULCE | First 5 Alameda County Skip to main content News Our Leadership Search Search for: About Us Our Approach Our Work Kindergarten Readiness Policy + Advocacy Tax Funded Work Partnerships Strategic Plan Annual Report Programs + Initiatives Fathers Corps Quality Counts Help Me Grow Measure C Project DULCE Measure C 5-Year Plan Neighborhoods Ready for School Oakland Children’s Initiative Funding Opportunities Tools + Resources Resource Library Parent Resources Provider Resources Trainings + Public Meetings Trainings First 5 Commission Community Advisory Council About Us Strategic Plan Project DULCE Developmental Understanding and Legal Collaboration for Everyone At a glance Since 2016, First 5 Alameda County has invested nearly $200,000 annually in Project DULCE. Between 2023-2024, this investment resulted in: 153 families of newborns served 150+ hours of legal support provided by East Bay Community Law Center Project DULCE is changing the way families experience healthcare Project DULCE (Developmental Understanding and Legal Collaboration for Everyone) is a pediatric care coordination initiative that helps families with young babies during the first six months of life.       The initiative, housed at Highland Hospital Pediatric Department, connects families to home visits, legal consultation, and resources that support healthy child development. Nested within First 5’s Pediatric Care Coordination strategy, Project DULCE uses parent leadership to inform programming and investments and is a partnership between First 5 Alameda County, the East Bay Community Law Center, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital, and the Center for the Study of Social Policy. Funding Opportunities Tools + Resources News All News Mar 9, 2026 Updates and Next Steps for Family Resource Center RFP Announced Read on for an update and information on next steps related to the Family Resource Center RFP. Read More Mar 3, 2026 First 5 Alameda County Celebrates $112 Million in Awarded Measure C Investments Read More Dec 17, 2025 First 5 Alameda County Distributes Over $8 Million in First Wave of Critical Relief Funds for Historically Underpaid Caregivers Read More There is an undeniable connection between neighborhood, family, and child wellbeing. We all do better and feel better if we experience a sense of well-being and belonging. Children succeed in loving families, families succeed in supportive communities, and communities have the answers. Allison Becwar, President & CEO, Lincoln Families 1115 Atlantic Ave Alameda, CA 94501 510.227.6900 Directions About Us Commission Community Advisory Council (Measure C) Funding Opportunities Careers Media Kit Trainings News High 5 Privacy Statement Follow Us Stay updated with our newsletter X/Twitter This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Name Email Sign Up © First 5 Alameda County, 2025 | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy Site by Quality Counts | First 5 Alameda County Skip to main content News Our Leadership Search Search for: About Us Our Approach Our Work Kindergarten Readiness Policy + Advocacy Tax Funded Work Partnerships Strategic Plan Annual Report Programs + Initiatives Fathers Corps Quality Counts Help Me Grow Measure C Project DULCE Measure C 5-Year Plan Neighborhoods Ready for School Oakland Children’s Initiative Funding Opportunities Tools + Resources Resource Library Parent Resources Provider Resources Trainings + Public Meetings Trainings First 5 Commission Community Advisory Council About Us Strategic Plan Quality Counts At a glance Between 2022-2023, our investments in Quality Counts supported: 8,135 children served at enrolled sites 1,113 professional development stipends for providers 83 professional development opportunities $2.1M in financial incentives disbursed A statewide effort to strengthen the early learning and care system Quality Counts is an initiative that helps early care and education professionals improve their programs to better support the children and families they serve. 90% of brain development happens in the first five years of a child’s life—making these years critical for the future success of our children and our society. That’s why we’re dedicated to working with early care and education professionals who are committed to quality and best practices. Quality care during these years creates a safe, nurturing environment for children to develop physically, socially, emotionally, and intellectually. What does quality early care and education look like? While quality metrics are tied to the classroom, at First 5 we’re guided by our “whole child, whole family, whole community” approach. We recognize that conditions beyond the classroom have significant impact on a child’s positive development. We’re focused on: Low teacher-to-child ratios and small group sizes Age-appropriate learning activities Safe, engaging learning environments Activities that support physical, social, and emotional growth Qualified staff with access to professional development opportunities Benefits of participating in Quality Counts Through Quality Counts, First 5 Alameda County provides: Integrated quality rating Funding opportunities and technical assistance Professional development, training and coaching Frequently asked questions Who is eligible for Quality Counts? All licensed and publicly funded, license-exempt early care and education sites are eligible to participate in Quality Counts. This includes California Department of Education Contractors (CSPP and CCTR), Early Head Start and Head Start, Licensed Family Child Care Providers and Private Centers, and Legally License-Exempt Public Child Care Centers. Is there priority eligibility for underserved neighborhoods that enroll? Yes, priority is given to early care and education providers who serve children from low-income families, infants and toddlers, children with special needs, and children who are English Language Learners Do I qualify for the professional development stipends? Participants who wish to receive the Quality Counts Professional Development Stipend and/or Workforce Pathways Project Higher Ed Stipend must register and submit their applications through the California Early Care and Education (CA ECE) Workforce Registry . The Registry website, resources, and technical assistance support are available in English, Spanish, and Chinese. What is the CA ECE Workforce Registry? The California Early Care and Education (CA ECE) Workforce Registry is a statewide website that maintains demographic and verified educational information for members of the early care and education workforce. This data system keeps track of your employment history, degrees, professional development hours, child development permits, credentials, and accomplishments. How do I register for the CA ECE Workforce Registry? Click here to read the instructions for creating a user account. You can also watch the tutorial videos, which are available in English, Spanish, and Chinese. How is the Quality Counts initiative funded? Quality Counts is funded by a collaboration between First 5 California (F5CA), the California Department of Education (CDE), and the California Department of Social Services (CDSS). Funding Opportunities Tools + Resources Related resources More Resources Training opportunities and resources for ECE providers Links and additional training opportunities for Alameda County providers serving families with children 0-5 and beyond. Learn more Report: Kindergarten Readiness in Alameda County 2021-2022 Executive Summary The 2021-22 Kindergarten Readiness Assessment (KRA) findings and recommendations show how our county may improve kindergarten readiness in theoverlapping environments that influence children’s readiness—communities, families, and schools. Learn more Report: Urban Unincorporated Areas of Alameda County Early Care and Education Needs Assessment The Unincorporated Areas of Alameda County Early Care and Education Needs Assessment was developed by First 5 Alameda County (First 5), in partnership with the Urban Alameda County Community Development Agency and on behalf of the Alameda County Board of Supervisors. This report was developed with the goal of increasing access to basic needs in… Learn more The goal of early childhood education should be to activate the child’s own natural desire to learn. Maria Montessori 1115 Atlantic Ave Alameda, CA 94501 510.227.6900 Directions About Us Commission Community Advisory Council (Measure C) Funding Opportunities Careers Media Kit Trainings News High 5 Privacy Statement Follow Us Stay updated with our newsletter Name This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Name Email Sign Up © First 5 Alameda County, 2025 | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy Site by Provider Resources | First 5 Alameda County Skip to main content News Our Leadership Search Search for: About Us Our Approach Our Work Kindergarten Readiness Policy + Advocacy Tax Funded Work Partnerships Strategic Plan Annual Report Programs + Initiatives Fathers Corps Quality Counts Help Me Grow Measure C Project DULCE Measure C 5-Year Plan Neighborhoods Ready for School Oakland Children’s Initiative Funding Opportunities Tools + Resources Resource Library Parent Resources Provider Resources Trainings + Public Meetings Trainings First 5 Commission Community Advisory Council Tools + Resources Provider Resources Our commitment to providers revolves around understanding and addressing their unique needs. In our provider resource library, child care providers will discover a rich array of resources, information, and programs for child care providers and early care and education professionals. Explore resources for child care providers Filter Search Filter Type Audience Topic Filter Search Audience Topic Media Type West Ed Report: Oakland Children’s Initiative Listening Sessions Download Report Kindergarten Readiness Assessment Dashboard View resource Board of Supervisor Profiles 2023 LEARN MORE Measure C Materials LEARN MORE HIGH5 HIGH5 is the First 5 Alameda County portal to manage training, events, awards, and funding opportunities. View resource 1115 Atlantic Ave Alameda, CA 94501 510.227.6900 Directions About Us Commission Community Advisory Council (Measure C) Funding Opportunities Careers Media Kit Trainings News High 5 Privacy Statement Follow Us Stay updated with our newsletter Facebook This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Name Email Sign Up © First 5 Alameda County, 2025 | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy Site by Resource Library | First 5 Alameda County Skip to main content News Our Leadership Search Search for: About Us Our Approach Our Work Kindergarten Readiness Policy + Advocacy Tax Funded Work Partnerships Strategic Plan Annual Report Programs + Initiatives Fathers Corps Quality Counts Help Me Grow Measure C Project DULCE Measure C 5-Year Plan Neighborhoods Ready for School Oakland Children’s Initiative Funding Opportunities Tools + Resources Resource Library Parent Resources Provider Resources Trainings + Public Meetings Trainings First 5 Commission Community Advisory Council Tools + Resources Resource Library The Resource Library is a comprehensive hub for parents, child care providers, pediatric care providers, elected officials, partners, and community members. It houses many resources, including informative reports, program details, evaluations, and community data. This library is designed to empower stakeholders by providing access to valuable information that supports informed decision-making and collaboration to enhance the overall well-being of children and families. Explore all tools and resources Filter Search Filter Type Audience Topic Filter Search Audience Topic Media Type Neighborhoods Ready for School Grantee Data Sheets These data sheets provide key details about each neighborhood served and the impact of Neighborhoods Ready for School grantees work. View resource Neighborhoods Ready for School Grantee Workplans These four-year strategic workplans help identify how each of the four Neighborhoods Ready for School Initiative grantees will reach their strategic goals. View resource 2025-26 Data for Action Guide The Data for Action 2026 shines a light on the conditions shaping children’s early childhood experiences across Alameda County. Download Guide Federal Update: Status of Child Care Funding Freeze Litigation In January 2026, the federal government announced a freeze on federal child care funding streams that support children in California and other states. For Alameda County, these funds help support child care and social services for thousands of families. The funding freeze was blocked from going into affect by a federal court. We are actively monitoring developments and will continue to share updates in this memo as more information becomes available. Download To Learn More West Ed Report: Oakland Children’s Initiative Listening Sessions Download Report News All News Mar 9, 2026 Updates and Next Steps for Family Resource Center RFP Announced Read on for an update and information on next steps related to the Family Resource Center RFP. Read More Mar 3, 2026 First 5 Alameda County Celebrates $112 Million in Awarded Measure C Investments Read More Dec 17, 2025 First 5 Alameda County Distributes Over $8 Million in First Wave of Critical Relief Funds for Historically Underpaid Caregivers Read More 1115 Atlantic Ave Alameda, CA 94501 510.227.6900 Directions About Us Commission Community Advisory Council (Measure C) Funding Opportunities Careers Media Kit Trainings News High 5 Privacy Statement Follow Us Stay updated with our newsletter Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Name Email Sign Up © First 5 Alameda County, 2025 | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy Site by First 5 Alameda County Distributes Over $8 Million in First Wave of Critical Relief Funds for Historically Underpaid Caregivers | First 5 Alameda County Skip to main content News Our Leadership Search Search for: About Us Our Approach Our Work Kindergarten Readiness Policy + Advocacy Tax Funded Work Partnerships Strategic Plan Annual Report Programs + Initiatives Fathers Corps Quality Counts Help Me Grow Measure C Project DULCE Measure C 5-Year Plan Neighborhoods Ready for School Oakland Children’s Initiative Funding Opportunities Tools + Resources Resource Library Parent Resources Provider Resources Trainings + Public Meetings Trainings First 5 Commission Community Advisory Council Back to News First 5 Alameda County Distributes Over $8 Million in First Wave of Critical Relief Funds for Historically Underpaid Caregivers First 5 Alameda County announces the distribution of $4,000 relief grants to more than 2,000 Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) caregivers, totaling over $8 million in the first round of funding. Dec 17, 2025 Family, Friend, and Neighbor Caregivers Can Now Opt Into $4,000 Grants to Help Bolster Economic Stability and Strengthen Early Learning Experiences ALAMEDA, CA –  Today,  First 5 Alameda County  announced the distribution of $4,000 relief grants to more than 2,000 Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) caregivers, totaling over $8 million in the first round of funding. Over the full course of the funding initiative, First 5 Alameda County anticipates supporting over 3,000 FFN caregivers, who collectively care for an estimated 5,200 children across Alameda County. These grants are only a portion of the estimated $190 million being invested into expanding our early childcare system through direct caregiver relief to upcoming facilities, shelter, and long-term sustainability investments for providers from Measure C in its first year.  This investment builds on the early rollout of Measure C and reflects a comprehensive, system-wide strategy to strengthen Alameda County’s early childhood ecosystem so families can rely on sustainable, accessible care,  These important caregivers provide child care in Alameda County to their relatives, friends, and neighbors. While public benefits continue to decrease for families, and inflation and the cost of living continue to rise, these grants provide direct economic support for FFN caregivers, whose wages have historically been very low or nonexistent, and very few of whom receive benefits. As families continue to face growing financial pressures, especially during the winter and holiday season, these grants will help these caregivers with living expenses such as rent, utilities, supplies, and food. “Family, Friend, and Neighbor caregivers are lifelines for so many children and families in Alameda County,” said  Kristin Spanos, CEO, First 5 Alameda County . “Yet, they often go unrecognized and undercompensated for their labor and ability to give individualized, culturally connected care. At First 5, we support the conditions that allow families to thrive, and getting this money into the hands of these caregivers and families at a time of heightened financial stress for parents is part of that commitment.” The funding for these relief grants comes from  Measure C , a local voter-approved sales tax in Alameda County that invests in young children, their families, communities, providers, and caregivers. Within the first year of First 5’s  5-Year Plan  for Measure C, in addition to the relief grants to informal FFN caregivers, other significant investments will benefit licensed child care providers. These investments include over $40 million in Early Care and Education (ECE) Emergency Grants, which have already flowed to nearly 800 center-based and family child care providers. As part of First 5’s 5-Year Plan, preparations are also underway to distribute facilities grants early next year for child care providers who need to make urgent repairs or improvements, and to launch the Emergency Revolving Fund in Spring 2026 to support licensed child care providers in Alameda County who are at risk of closure. The FFN Relief Grants recognize and support the essential work that an estimated 3,000 FFN caregivers provide to 5,200 children in Alameda County. There is still an opportunity to receive funds for FFN caregivers who have not yet received them. In partnership with First 5 Alameda County, Child Care Payment Agencies play a critical role in identifying eligible caregivers and leading coordinated outreach efforts to ensure FFN caregivers are informed of and able to access these relief funds.FFN caregivers are eligible for the grant if they receive a child care payment from an Alameda County Child Care Payment Agency, 4Cs of Alameda County, BANANAS, Hively, and Davis Street, and are currently caring for a child 12 years old or younger in Alameda County. Additionally, FFN caregivers who provided care for a child 12 years or younger at any time since April 1, 2025, but are no longer doing so, are also eligible for the funds. Eligible caregivers are being contacted by their Child Care Payment Agency on a rolling basis, beginning with those who provided care between April and July 2025.  “This money is coming to me at a critical time of heightened economic strain,” said  Jill Morton , a caregiver in Oakland, California. “Since I am a non-licensed childcare provider, I didn’t think I was eligible for this financial support. I was relieved that this money can help pay my rent, purchase learning materials for the children as well as enhance childcare, buy groceries and take care of grandchildren.” Eligible FFN caregivers who provided care at any time between April 1, 2025 and July 31, 2025, who haven’t yet opted into the process, are encouraged to check their mail and email for an eligibility letter. Those who have cared for a child after this period should expect to receive communications from their child care payment agency in the coming months. FFN caregivers with questions may also contact the agency they work with to receive child care payments, or the First 5 Alameda help desk, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PST, at 510-227-6964. The help desk will be closed 12/25/25 – 1/1/26 .  Additional grant payments will be made on a rolling basis as opt-ins are received by the four child care payment agencies in Alameda County. Beginning in the second year of Measure C implementation, FFN caregivers who care for a child from birth to age five and receive an Alameda County subsidized voucher will get an additional $500 per month. This amounts to an annual increase of about $6,000 per child receiving a subsidy. Together with more Measure C funding expected to flow back into the community as part of First 5’s 5-Year Plan, investments will continue to become available in the coming year for addressing the needs of childcare providers in Alameda County.  Media Contact Rachel Davis, Chief Strategic Communications Officer, First 5 Alameda County, 408.712.9149, [email protected] Back to News 1115 Atlantic Ave Alameda, CA 94501 510.227.6900 Directions About Us Commission Community Advisory Council (Measure C) Funding Opportunities Careers Media Kit Trainings News High 5 Privacy Statement Follow Us Stay updated with our newsletter Instagram This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Name Email Sign Up © First 5 Alameda County, 2025 | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy Site by First 5 Commission | First 5 Alameda County Skip to main content News Our Leadership Search Search for: About Us Our Approach Our Work Kindergarten Readiness Policy + Advocacy Tax Funded Work Partnerships Strategic Plan Annual Report Programs + Initiatives Fathers Corps Quality Counts Help Me Grow Measure C Project DULCE Measure C 5-Year Plan Neighborhoods Ready for School Oakland Children’s Initiative Funding Opportunities Tools + Resources Resource Library Parent Resources Provider Resources Trainings + Public Meetings Trainings First 5 Commission Community Advisory Council Commission First 5 Alameda County Commission meetings are open to the public . The full commission meets up to six times a year. 2026 Meeting Calendar Meeting Information All meetings are open to the public . People who wish to attend the meeting can join online via Zoom or in person at our Conference Center at 1115 Atlantic Ave, Alameda, CA 94501 . Interpretation services are available in Spanish or Chinese upon request. Please contact Julia Otani at [email protected] or call (510) 227-6987 ten business days in advance if you need translation/interpretation support. DATE & TIME LOCATION AGENDA Executive Committee Thursday, June 18, 2026 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. First 5 Alameda County Room E 1115 Atlantic Ave. Alameda, CA 94501 Zoom link: https://first5alameda-org.zoom.us/j/83575306522?pwd=ROtFaaCcnFqVftVr7VQ26GFZ66Acg0.1 Zoom Meeting ID: 835 7530 6522 Passcode: 652294 Agenda Meeting Book Commission Meeting Tuesday, June 25, 2026 9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. First 5 Alameda County Conference Center 1115 Atlantic Ave. Alameda, CA 94501 Zoom link: https://first5alameda-org.zoom.us/j/89990730846?pwd=BoLKl529jwaf1LIpSeao9Bb6DmgIXe.1 Zoom Meeting ID: 899 9073 0846 Passcode: 319134 Agenda Meeting Book Meet First 5 Alameda County Commissioners  Tomás A. Magaña Commissioner, Chair Read Bio Andrea Ford Commissioner, Vice Chair Read Bio Supervisor Nikki Fortunato Bas Commissioner Read Bio Clarissa Doutherd Commissioner Read Bio Cathy Sandeen Commissioner Read Bio Josh Thurman Commissioner Read Bio Karina Moreno Commissioner Read Bio Kimi Watkins-Tartt Commissioner Read Bio Teleconference Guidelines Pursuant to Assembly Bill 361, First 5 Alameda County Commission meetings and committee meetings are held by teleconference only. No physical location will be available for these teleconference meetings; however, members of the public will be able to watch or participate in the meetings, as noted below. Watch and provide public comments to teleconference meetings Written Comment are accepted 24 hours prior to the scheduled meeting, unless otherwise noted on the meeting agenda. To provide written comment on an item on the agenda or to raise an issue as Public Input, you may send an email to [email protected] . Please include your name, and either the agenda item number you are addressing, or that your comment falls under Public Input. Copies of all written comments submitted by the deadline above will be provided to each Commissioner and will be added to the official record. Written comments submitted after the deadline will only be added to the official meeting record. Comments will NOT be read into the record. Spoken public comments will be accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission or Committee, click on the following link to access a Zoom-based meeting. You may also call into the meeting by smartphone. Please read the following instructions carefully. You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in-browser. If using your browser, make sure you are using a current, up-to-date browser: Chrome 30+, Firefox 27+, Microsoft Edge 12+, Safari 7+. Certain functionality may be disabled in older browsers including Internet Explorer. You will be asked to enter an email address and name Offer spoken public comment in-person We request that you identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you that it is your turn to speak. When the Commission or Committee Chair calls for the item on which you wish to speak, click on “raise hand.” The staff will activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they are called to speak. When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Brown Act, those requiring accommodation for these meetings should notify First 5 Alameda County 24 hours prior to the meeting at (510) 227-6987 or [email protected] Archive of Meeting Documents Filter Search Meeting Type Date Language Filter Search Meeting Type Date Language Apr 20, 2017 April 20, 2017 Commission Resolution on Immigration Click here to download the resolution. Read More Feb 13, 2020 2-13-20 Executive Committee Meeting Book Download Meeting Book Read More Apr 9, 2020 4-9-20 Executive Committee Meeting Book Download Meeting Book Read More Jun 11, 2020 6-11-20 Executive Committee Meeting Book Download Meeting Book Read More Jun 18, 2020 June 18, 2020 Commission Resolution on Equity and Justice Click here to download the resolution. Read More Equity Statement As part of our continued work to center equity in our programming, investments, and advocacy, we engaged in a participatory agencywide learning and development process to update our equity statement to encompass our current work, intentions for continuous learning and improvement, and commitment to accountability. Learn more Every extra year of exposure to a positive childhood environment makes a significant impact on long-term outcomes. Dr. Raj Chetty, William A. Ackman Professor of Economics at Harvard University 1115 Atlantic Ave Alameda, CA 94501 510.227.6900 Directions About Us Commission Community Advisory Council (Measure C) Funding Opportunities Careers Media Kit Trainings News High 5 Privacy Statement Follow Us Stay updated with our newsletter X/Twitter This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Name Email Sign Up © First 5 Alameda County, 2025 | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy Site by