The ECA is at a critical crossroad and we need your help!

Without immediate support, we will be forced to drastically reduce vital services families count on, including:

  • Our one-stop community hub, where families get help enrolling in community childcare, preschool & home visiting programs and any financial assistance available. 

  • Parent and family supports like parent groups, English classes with childcare, and open play times where valuable skills are built.

  • Critical connections, such as interpretation services, early intervention referrals, mental health supports, and emergency assistance.

This year (FY26), state leaders secured funding to continue the ECA’s work helping vulnerable young children and families. Unfortunately, due to a technical error in the state budget, the funds we were promised are not accessible. That means right now, the ECA is facing a serious funding gap.

Check out our list of supporters!

Why it matters?

Research has shown that children with quality early learning experiences have better school grades, are healthier, and have higher incomes later in life. Children who arrive at Kindergarten more prepared to learn and succeed require less interventions and support, saving valuable tax dollars and changing life outcomes. With 90% of brain development happening before the age of 5, birth-five is where we need to pour in the resources to reduce the achievement/ opportunity gap that is so prevalent already in Kindergarten! Every child - no matter their family’s income, home language or background - deserves this chance.

Please consider making a gift today and sharing this campaign with friends, family and neighbors. Your donation will help us bridge the gap until the budget issue can be fixed.  Every dollar makes a difference in ensuring that vulnerable children in Niles Township have the strong start they deserve.

Together, we can keep early childhood opportunities accessible for all families in our community.  

The Early Childhood Alliance of Niles Township is a 501(c)3 – your donation is tax deductible to the full extent of the law. 

To date, the ECA has helped connect over 315 children with critical early learning programs and we need your help to keep connecting even more.  WE NEED YOU, our community’s children and families need you!