Senator Ed Markey recently announced that he and Senator Elizabeth Warren have secured $2 million in funding to support the construction of People Incorporated’s new early childhood learning center in Fall River. This significant investment comes after years of advocacy and planning to address the critical need for quality early education in the community.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the state-of-the-art People Incorporated Early Education Center took place on Weaver Street, marking a major milestone in a vision that has been in the works for over a decade. When completed in 2025, the center will accommodate up to 213 infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, providing a much-needed resource for families in the area.
Megan Stirk, the president and CEO of People Inc., emphasized the positive impact that the new learning center will have on the community. She highlighted the potential for job creation for educators and the opportunity to establish valuable partnerships that will enhance early education in Fall River. Stirk also emphasized the long-term benefits of investing in early childhood education, noting that it is essential for setting children up for academic success.
During the ceremony, Senator Ed Markey underscored the importance of investing in children, stating that they are not just a small portion of the population but represent the entirety of the future. He emphasized the role that children play in shaping solutions to society’s challenges and stressed the need to provide them with the resources and support necessary to thrive.
State Representative Patricia Haddad, who has been involved in early childhood education advocacy for over two decades, reflected on the evolution of the conversation around early learning. She recalled a time when early education was often viewed as mere childcare, underscoring the shift towards recognizing its significance in laying the foundation for children’s development and success.
Mayor Paul Coogan echoed the sentiments of other leaders, emphasizing the importance of expanding access to high-quality early education in Fall River. He praised the People Incorporated Early Education Center as a crucial piece of the puzzle in meeting the community’s needs and supporting children’s growth and development.
Amy Kershaw, the commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care, reflected on the collective vision that drove the establishment of the state’s early childhood education initiatives. She highlighted the importance of collaboration at all levels of government to prioritize early education and ensure that every child has access to affordable, high-quality learning opportunities.
While the $2 million earmark from Senators Markey and Warren represents a significant step forward, additional fundraising efforts are still needed to complete the project. Megan Stirk expressed gratitude for the support received from BayCoast Bank and other donors, totaling $4 million to date. She emphasized the importance of ongoing community engagement and fundraising to ensure the success of the People Incorporated Early Education Center.
In conclusion, the investment in early childhood education in Fall River represents a critical step towards providing children with the resources and support they need to thrive. The collaboration between local, state, and federal leaders underscores the shared commitment to prioritizing early education and investing in the future of the community. With continued support and fundraising efforts, the People Incorporated Early Education Center is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of children and families in Fall River.
