Early Childhood Development Advocacy Strategies

State Level

• Aloha United Way will continue to support the Keiki First Steps Program and Early Learning Council which were approved by the 2008 legislature. The Council's mission is to implement a universally accessible pre-school program (known as “Keiki First Steps”) for all 4-year olds in Hawaii. Funding support to the Council has been withdrawn as a result of Department of Education budget cuts and the exact nature of future legislation is unknown. Aloha United Way remains supportive of the Council’s work and will assist as appropriate.

RESULT: The core program was preserved and remaining funding from the original appropriation was retained.

• Aloha United Way will support and advocate for a state funded universal screening program for 3 & 4 year olds. While there will not be a Department of Health bill this year, Aloha United Way will work with other groups to develop and support legislation if it contributes to the long term universal screening objective.

RESULT: No action taken in 2009.

Federal Level

• Aloha United Way will continue to advocate for re-authorization and increased funding for the State Child Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) which provides funding for health insurance to children.

RESULT: In early 2009, SCHIP was reauthorized with increased funding. The increased funding will enable more children to have health care.