The City of Jacksonville has received a groundbreaking $5.8 million grant from the U.S. Department of the Treasury through the Social Impact Partnerships to Pay for Results Act (SIPPRA) program. This is the first time Jacksonville has been awarded such funding, which will support innovative initiatives aimed at improving early childhood literacy and family health throughout the community.
The SIPPRA program is designed to fund projects that demonstrate measurable success in achieving social outcomes, with payments tied to meeting predefined goals. Jacksonville’s initiatives will focus on expanding early literacy programs and enhancing access to vital maternal and child health services.
One major component of the funding will integrate literacy coaching into pediatric healthcare visits, encouraging parents to read with their children from birth to help foster language development, strengthen family bonds, and lay a foundation for academic success.
The grant will also enhance nurse home visiting services for new parents, offering personalized support during the critical postpartum period. This initiative aims to address maternal mental health and reduce emergency medical visits for newborns, ensuring families receive the care and guidance they need to thrive.
“We are grateful that our efforts are being recognized at the national level and that our focus on federal grants continues to bring more of our tax dollars home,” said Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan. “This investment in Jacksonville’s families is a testament to our community’s commitment to early childhood success. By focusing on literacy and family health, we are creating a brighter future for our children and building a city that works for all of us.”
Dr. Saralyn Grass, CEO of Kids Hope Alliance, which oversees programs for children and families in Jacksonville, stated, “This grant allows us to expand critical programs that not only support children’s educational growth but also address maternal health and family stability. It’s an exciting step forward in our mission to ensure every child in Jacksonville has the opportunity to thrive.”
This investment represents Jacksonville’s dedication to using evidence-based solutions to improve the quality of life for its residents, empowering families, and strengthening the community as a whole.
For more information about Jacksonville’s ongoing initiatives for children, youth and families, please visit www.kidshopealliance.org.
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