First 5 California Calls Trump Budget Proposal Devastation for Health and Education Programs for Children

Defense spending soars on the backs of the most vulnerable children
and families

SACRAMENTO, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–With the release of President Trump’s proposed federal budget, today the
Administration is putting all Americans on notice of a major shift in
Americans’ values. For every dollar allocated to increase defense
spending, corresponding cuts across 18 federal agencies will slash
domestic programs that provide essential public education, health, and
social safety net services for the nation’s most vulnerable children and
families.

“Working poor families have not shared in our economic recovery. They
still struggle to make a living, obtain affordable housing, get access
to health care, and find quality child-care for their children,” said
Camille Maben, Executive Director at First 5 California. “The proposed
budget cuts are unprecedented in size and scope and will devastate
low-income children and families.”

Although there are no details about the proposed $15 billion cuts to the
Department of Health and Human Services, from the President’s insistence
on repealing the ACA and reducing Medicaid by as much as $880 billion,
one can only conclude these cuts will directly affect the health and
welfare of poor children and their families. “I truly fear these
overwhelming cuts affecting our youngest children and their hard-working
families will implode our education and health systems,” said Ms. Maben.

About First 5 California

First 5 California was established in 1998 when voters passed
Proposition 10, which taxes tobacco products to fund services for
children ages 0 to 5 and their families. First 5 programs and resources
are designed to educate and support teachers, parents, and caregivers in
the critical role they play during a child’s first five years – to help
California kids receive the best possible start in life and thrive. For
more information, please visit www.ccfc.ca.gov.

Contacts

First 5 California
Erin Gabel, 916-708-8895