Children First has received $120,000 from two local foundations to support comprehensive services for children and families across Sarasota County.

The McCune Family Foundation awarded $70,000 to continue the philanthropic legacy of Frank and Mae McCune through its commitment to helping children and youth overcome challenges.

A $50,000 grant from the Dr. Samir M. Shafie Charitable Foundation reflects its focus on education, nutrition, and food security.

Together, the grants will help provide infants, toddlers, and preschoolers with high-quality early childhood education, nutritious meals, health and developmental services, and individualized support. Parents and caregivers also receive guidance and resources that strengthen parenting skills, education, employment, financial stability, and overall family well-being.

“Support at this level allows us to respond to the whole picture of what children and families need to thrive,” said Children First President & CEO Philip Tavill. “We are grateful to the McCune Family Foundation and the Dr. Samir M. Shafie Charitable Foundation for investing in services that create opportunities in the classroom, at home, and throughout a family’s journey.”

About Children First:

Founded in 1961 and ranked in the top 1% out of over 1,600 Head Starts nationwide, Children First’s mission is: Strengthening children and families by improving the quality of their lives through a comprehensive approach to development, education, health, and well-being. At multiple sites throughout Sarasota County, Children First offers full-day preschool, infant and toddler care, and nutrition and health care assistance to children ages birth to five years old from low-income families. Through Children First, the children receive the social and cognitive skills needed to enter kindergarten and elementary school on track. For more information, call (941) 953-3877 or go to childrenfirst.net.
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