First 5 Contra Costa Launches Community-Based Web Site For Children, Families And Service Providers

—Contact: Tracy Irwin 925/335-9991 ext. 13

Martinez (May 20, 2003) — Yesterday First 5 Contra Costa, also known as the Contra Costa Children and Families Commission, introduced an innovative new Web site for parents and caregivers who care for babies and young children. The Network of Care for Kids is a “No Wrong Door” online information tool that provides critical parenting information, local services and resources, and advocacy tools, all in one place. This site can greatly assist families with questions they have every day, from childproofing a home to finding quality child care. Parents can also use the bill-tracking section to follow state and federal legislation that affects children and families and communicate directly with lawmakers before they vote.

Sponsored by an innovation grant from the State of California in partnership with First 5 Contra Costa, Network of Care for Kids (www.networkofcare.org) is a pilot program for California and the nation. Regardless of where individuals, families and agencies begin their search for assistance with children’s issues, Network of Care for Kids ensures they will find what they need.

“Network of Care is a better way to connect the community that cares for our children,” said Dr. Paula Moten-Tolson, Chair of First 5 Contra Costa. “The site will help to meet First 5 Contra Costa’s goal to get information into the hands of parents when they need it most. When parents and caregivers have access to education, support and resources, they are less likely to feel the effects of isolation or stress.”

Network of Care for Kids also provides a comprehensive Service Directory of service providers in Contra Costa County, an easy-to-search library with vital information about child development and health care, and daily news articles from around the world concerning children’s issues.

Trilogy Integrated Resources LLC of San Rafael, Calif., created, developed and maintains all Network of Care Web sites, including the Network of Care for Seniors, People with Disabilities, and the Network of Care for Mental Health. In 1998, California voters approved Proposition 10, which levied a 50-cent tax on each pack of cigarettes. Revenues generated are used to fund local health, child care and education programs that promote early childhood development, targeting children during their first five years of life, as well as anti-tobacco education.