First 5 San Bernardino Commissioners and staff recently took part in First 5 Association of California’s annual Advocacy Day held virtually throughout the state on April 19.
Furthering important policy issues affecting the 0-5 population, calls and Zoom meetings with 74 legislative offices were conducted by over 100 First 5 executive directors, staff, commissioners and local partners from 49 counties. Social media was also buzzing with aligned messages, including a coordinated Tweet Storm, reaching thousands of users.
“The relationship that First 5 San Bernardino maintains and nurtures with our local elected officials is vital in collaborating and meeting the needs of County residents,” explained Karen Scott, executive director of First 5 San Bernardino. “I was very proud to have the opportunity to represent the F5SB Commission and our unwavering commitment to improving the lives of children ages prenatal through 5 and their families and communities,” Scott concluded.
Throughout these legislative visits, First 5’s had the opportunity to share policy agenda which frames a Whole Child, Whole Family approach. Specific asks included funding for infant and early childhood mental health, expanding home visiting programs and supporting Medi-Cal continuous eligibility to name a few.