Online Fundraising Campaign raises $22,665 for the Novato Youth Center

The Novato Youth Center is pleased to announce that through the support of 72 contributors, $22,665 was raised to support children in low-income households. All of these funds will go directly to support childcare services so that children in low income households receive enriching care, while their parents/guardians can remain the workforce and continue in their journey out of poverty! This is crucial in Marin where living costs are extremely high, and childcare is the second highest cost in the family home. This online fundraising campaign was also made possible through HandUp.org and matching by Google.org. Families like Aracelia and her four children (pictured here) and others thank you for contributing to this important work.

"We are so fortunate to have a wonderful community of supporters here in Novato and throughout Marin County," expressed Executive Director Cheryl Paddack. "We are launching a new case management system this Fall so that even more families can receive and locate essential services for their families' success."

Childcare services benefit the entire community, not just a family. For every $1 spent on quality early care, the community saves $16 in law enforcement, special education, and welfare dependence costs. Parents with stable childcare arrangements are also more productive in their jobs. But state contracts only cover part of the costs - leaving more than a $70,000 shortfall this year at the Novato Youth Center. Campaign proceeds will go directly to help fill this gap.

The Novato Youth Center promotes the success of all youth, and nearly two-thirds of our childcare participants are from low-income families. Within its Child Development Program, the Center offers all-inclusive childcare; from healthy breakfasts in the morning, to daytime care and early education, to transporting children to and from NUSD schools, to providing after school homework help and enrichment programs until parents finish work. Child Development is one of their four programs and other program areas include Health & Wellness, Family & Community Engagement, and Community-based Prevention. To learn more, please visit www.novatoyouthcenter.org.