Item:
Title
Approval of Budget Ordinance Amendment No. 26BCC055 Cooperative Extension to Recognize $14,820.61 in additional Smart Start funding for the Welcome Baby Program
Body
Date of BOCC Meeting: March 9, 2026
Request for Board Action:
Agenda Text
The Board is requested to approve Budget Ordinance Amendment No. 26BCC055 Cooperative Extension to Recognize $14,820.61 in additional Smart Start funding for the Welcome Baby Program
Cooperative Extension’s Welcome Baby Program provides accessible, evidence-based child development information, positive parenting strategies, and concrete support. The program’s goals are to reduce Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), improve school readiness, increase caregiver knowledge of child development, reduce parental isolation, and connect families with essential resources that support both daily caregiving and long-term child success. These goals directly align with NC Department DHHS DSS statewide Prevention Framework priorities related to primary prevention, protective factor development, and family strengthening.
Welcome Baby has been a recipient of Smart Start funding for over 20 years. This additional funding will support the continued delivery of evidence-based parental support for families with children ages 0-5.
Alignment with Strategic Plan: The additional funds to implement evidence-based parenting workshops align with the strategic focus areas of Healthy & Inclusive Community, Empowered Community, and Financial Stewardship.
Resource Persons: Donna Rewalt, County Extension Director; Patience Mukelabai, Welcome Baby Program Manager.
County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that the Board approves Budget Ordinance Amendment No. 26BCC055 Cooperative Extension to Recognize $14,820.61 in additional Smart Start funding for the Welcome Baby Program