The First 5 Network, which includes First 5 California, the First 5 Association of California, and First 5 LA, issued the a press release regarding Governor Gavin Newsom’s revised May 2025-2026 budget proposal.
“Governor Newsom’s revised 2025 budget presents significant challenges for California’s youngest children and their families. While the First 5 Network appreciates the Governor and administration for maintaining their commitment to additional child care slots and increasing rates, we are concerned that these investments in early care and education are undermined by the proposal to suspend cost-of-living adjustments for providers. The Network is further concerned by the proposal to cut funding for the Emergency Child Care Bridge program in half. This program is critical to ensure that children in foster care who have access to trauma-informed and appropriate child care and provides essential support for foster families.
The First 5 Network was encouraged by the administration’s decision to increase investments in Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Aware by $2.9M for next year, preventing the complete sunsetting the ACEs Aware initiative, which would have had devastating consequences for the long-term health and well-being of California’s families. We are hopeful that the Governor and Legislature can work toward fully restoring $50 million in funding for ACEs Aware moving forward to ensure it is able to fully meet the needs of California children and families who have experienced trauma.” “