A new grant program from the Maine Community Foundation (MaineCF) will allow five communities across the state an opportunity to ensure their youngest children receive a healthy start and arrive at kindergarten developmentally prepared to succeed in school and life.

The competitive grant program is part of the foundation’s early childhood strategic plan. Funding of up to $25,000 for each grantee will allow community members to organize, gather data about their 0-5 population, map community resources, identify barriers, and develop an action plan to address challenges and improve kindergarten readiness.

“A child’s earliest experiences lay the foundation for future learning, behavior, and health. Yet, in most schools, at least a third of entering kindergarten students lack the developmental skills necessary to succeed,” says Steve Rowe, president and CEO of the foundation. “We must do better and we believe local initiatives like this hold the greatest potential for success.”

Contributing partners to this program include the John T. Gorman Foundation and Michael and Denise Dubyak.

The deadline for applications is March 30. The online application and more details of the grant program are available at www.mainecf.org. For additional information, contact Stephanie Eglinton, senior program officer, (207) 412-0837.

A statewide organization with headquarters in Ellsworth and offices in Portland, Dover-Foxcroft, and Mars Hill, the Maine Community Foundation works with donors and other partners to improve the quality of life for all Maine people. For more information, visit www.mainecf.org or call 1-877-700-6800.