Congressman DeSaulnier Announces Virtual State of the Union Guest, First 5 Contra Costa Executive Director Ruth Fernandez
Walnut Creek, CA – Today, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-11) announced Executive Director of First 5 Contra Costa, Ruth Fernandez, as his virtual guest for the State of the Union address. Congressman DeSaulnier will attend the address in person.
During tonight's speech, President Biden is expected to lay out practical measures that would reduce the costs of everyday expenses for families, including child care and early education. This builds on the support provided in the American Rescue Plan.
"As the coronavirus pandemic has laid bare and exacerbated our nation's inequities in education and child care, Congressional Democrats alongside President Biden have been fighting to ensure every child has the resources they need to thrive in and out of the classroom," said Congressman DeSaulnier. "With Ruth at the helm, First 5 Contra Costa has been an invaluable partner in this work and I am eager to continue our efforts to create opportunity for every child and their families, a goal I look forward to hearing the President lay out tonight."
"In order to support the well-being of California's youngest children, we must provide opportunities for all children to thrive," said Ruth Fernandez, Executive Director of First 5 Contra Costa. "Grounded in a whole child and whole family system of care that advances equity, prevention strategies, and systems coordination, First 5 Contra Costa believes services and programs that support children's development are critical resources and buffers that help families emerge out of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through nation-wide assistance, like the American Rescue Plan Act, we can increase family economic supports such as child care and provide immediate relief to communities that have suffered disproportionately during the pandemic."
First 5 Contra Costa serves young children and families across the County by investing in programs and advocating for policies focused on supporting children in the critical first five years of their lives. As Executive Director, Ruth brings over 12 years of experience working in early childhood education as well as a deep commitment to serving marginalized communities.
A livestream of Congressman DeSaulnier and Ruth will be available on Facebook at 1:00 p.m. PT. The Congressman will be available to press following the livestream.
WHO: Congressman Mark DeSaulnier and Executive Director Ruth Fernandez
WHEN: Tuesday, March 1st from 1:00 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. (PT)
WHERE: https://www.facebook.com/RepMarkDeSaulnier
Media interested in conducting an interview should contact Mairead Glowacki at mairead.glowacki@mail.house.gov or at (202) 760-1365.