(Madison County, NY – Oct. 2014) U.S. Representative Richard Hanna (R-NY) was presented with a “YMCA Congressional Champion” award at the Norwich Family YMCA Sept. 25. He received this award for his longstanding support and advocacy for access to affordable, quality early childhood education programs.
Hanna’s strong advocacy on behalf of the Strong Start for America’s Children Act helps ensure that working families have safe, enriching environments to care for their children, according to James Mullen, CEO of the Norwich Family YMCA, and Hank Leo, CEO of the YMCA of the Greater Tri-Valley; the duo presented the award.
“The Y is dedicated to providing positive, meaningful early childhood education programs to equip children with a strong educational background,” said Neal Denton, YMCA of the USA Chief Government Affairs Officer. “We are fortunate to have elected officials such as Representative Hanna who share our passion. His support of the Strong Start for America’s Children Act is just one example of his commitment to improving lives, throughout New York and the rest of the country.”
Hanna was a lead sponsor of the Strong Start for America’s Children Act, which proposes a 10-year initiative to expand and improve early learning opportunities for children across the birth to age 5 continuum. The bill would establish a new federal-state partnership to provide access to high-quality prekindergarten programs for all low-income and moderate-income children to ensure kindergarten readiness.
Hanna was also recognized in February on Capitol Hill at YMCA of the USA’s 2014 Advocacy Days. The Y plays a vital role in communities nationwide and advocates for policies that support nurturing youth, promoting healthy living and fostering social responsibility.