You may have heard or read breaking news that CHS experienced Federal Funding cuts offered through the state. Late last year, CHS applied for and had received a grant for a new service—Parents as Teachers (PAT). Much like Bright Start nurse home-visitation, PAT would allow child development professionals to provide home visits to families with children from prenatal through kindergarten.

Unfortunately, the $216,773 award was cut, along with the salary and benefits for one Bright Start nurse, which totaled $108,227. It is important to note that no PAT staff have been hired, as the service was still in its early stages, and the nurse's position remained vacant.

Sadly, these cuts mean clients cannot access services. It is unknown what the Federal FY26 budget will look like. CHS leadership will continue to monitor the situation and keep staff informed.