Our work

Early childhood systems

We strengthen the early care and education landscape — from emergency relief for child care providers to long-term blueprints that make quality care possible for every family.

Preschoolers sitting in a circle, listening to their teacher

Building the systems young children and families rely on

A caregiver playing with two toddlers at a toy kitchen in a child care program

2020–2021Completed

Child Care Relief Fund

CEC led the charge in advocating for and administering an almost $5 million fund that provided a month of operating expenses to child care centers and family child care homes, serving over 8,000 children in San Mateo County.

$5M+ in emergency relief distributed

Learn more about Child Care Relief Fund
Children working around a classroom table with their teacher

2020–2021Completed

Learning Hubs Initiative

CEC fundraised for and administered a $1.98 million grant program on behalf of the County of San Mateo, creating supportive places where 741 students could engage in distance learning during COVID-19.

$1.98M distributed in county funds and private donations

Learn more about Learning Hubs Initiative

Keep exploring

Climate & healthPreparing early childhood communities for a changing climateWorkforce pathwaysGrowing and sustaining the early education workforceInclusive communitiesWelcoming spaces where every child and family belongs