Congressman Ryan Zinke Announces More than $1 Million Dollars in Federal Funding for Lincoln County Youth Programs

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke announced more than $1 million dollars in federal grant funding to the Kootenai Valley Head Start based in Lincoln County, Montana. The funding is derived from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) CH-Head Start Projects program. 

The 28 member staff at the Kootenai Valley Head Start plans to use the five-year continuation grant toward funding programs supporting 96 children ages spanning in ages three, four and five living in and around Libby and Troy. The Kootenai Valley Head Start’s goal is to prepare their students for their next level of education and give their social, emotional and family dynamics a boosted foundation to help overcome generational poverty that places many students in vulnerable positions including food and heat insecurities. 

Grant Details: 

Recipient: Kootenai Valley Head Start

Program Title: CH-Head Start Projects 

Award Amount: $1,032,861

Congressman Zinke released the following statement regarding the HHS grant toward Lincoln County. 

“Raising a family is hard, no matter where you live but in rural communities there are unique challenges. Head start is an important program for kids and parents across Montana, especially in communities like Libby and Troy where childcare and early childhood education services are not as readily available,” Zinke said. “The Kootenai Valley Head Start program gives kids a safe and healthy learning environment around kids their own age and their work hasn’t gone unnoticed. I look forward to working them in the future and am eager to see the positive impact their staff will do with this award.” 

The Kootenai Head Start Program Director Peggy Rayome said the grant is monumental in keeping the Lincoln County program heading in the right direction. 

Rayome said, “As the director of Kootenai Valley Head Start, I am excited to be receiving this funding. These funds will ensure that our program will continue to have a positive influence for change by providing a safe learning environment for children and families. Last but not least, we strive to establish the foundation for creating a successful future for these children we serve.” 

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