First 5 Tulare County Information

First 5 Tulare County is an independent public agency aimed at promoting, supporting and improving the early development of children during their first five years of life. The Commission accomplishes its goals by partnering with the community - organizations and agencies both large and small-to develop new programs and link existing programs in innovative ways to ensure children are healthy and ready to learn when they enter school. First 5 Tulare County was created when California voters passed Proposition 10, the Children and Families Act of 1998, adding a 50 cents per pack tax on tobacco products. With about $6 million a year in Proposition 10 funds, First 5 Tulare County has created a number of hands-on programs with impressive results that target physical and mental health, literacy, parenting skills and school readiness. Since its inception, First 5 Tulare County has allocated more than $78 million to schools, community groups, hospitals and day care centers, all working together to strengthen Tulare County, one child, one family at a time.