Las Vegas Sun

March 18, 2024

Mothers make plea for state to save early childhood program

Day 3 - 2011 Legislative Session

Sam Morris / Las Vegas Sun

The state capitol is seen on the third day of the 2011 legislative session Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2011, in Carson City.

Sun Coverage

CARSON CITY – Scores of young mothers in Las Vegas and Carson City accompanied by noisy children pleaded today for the state to save the Family To Family program that has helped them deal with problems of early childhood.

“This would be a loss to the community you could not even imagine,” said Tracy White of Carson City, who called the program a “social gold mine.”

Ingrid Briggs of Las Vegas broke down in tears as she told her story of the program, which helps with such things as seat belts, child temperament and kindergarten preparation.

She said her husband left her and her children, and the program provided her with help and advice in getting a lawyer.

Their testimony came at a legislative budget subcommittee meeting. No action was taken by the subcommittee.

Gov. Brian Sandoval has proposed eliminating more than $750,000 for the program.

Senate Majority Leader Steven Horsford, D-Las Vegas, said, “Once you take this away there is nothing left for the family.” He said the program was the “brain child” of former first lady Sandy Miller.

Horsford said it also helps mothers and fathers to become good parents.

Sen. Sheila Leslie, D-Reno, chairwoman of the subcommittee, said the elimination of the money “takes away a crucial program on parent education.”

Carolyn Wheeler, involved with the child resource center at the Boys and Girls Club in Las Vegas, said it would close without the funding.

Wheeler called it a “safety net” for families. When she asked those who were in support of the program in Las Vegas to stand up, the entire audience rose.

Leslie said the elimination of funding for would mean resource centers would have to cut back on programs offered to help young mothers.

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