I'm expecting you've heard by now about Gov. Jerry Brown's proposal to take $1 billion from First 5 funding next year, and an additional 50 percent of our revenue every year after. Honestly, we know we have to step up and help solve California's fiscal crisis like everyone else, but this proposal would leave the youngest children of Los Angeles County with a different kind of First 5 LA - one that would not be able to fund all the education, health and child abuse prevention services many of them so desperately need.

I'm staying optimistic that the people and organizations we work hard with will make sure their voices are heard by lawmakers. Our state legislators need to see and know the bigger picture, no matter what side of the aisle they sit or how they feel about First 5. In less than a month, these legislators will decide if Brown's proposal, or some variation of it, will be put on the ballot for a special June election. Then it will be up to California voters to decide the fate of First 5 LA and the other county commissions.

We need your help in letting both the politicians and public know about all the work we've done, and want to continue to do, on behalf of children 0-5 and their families in L.A. County. As the proposal stands now, First 5 LA is facing a potential loss of more than $500 million. This would not only decimate our abilities to continue funding much-needed services at the levels we have but would likely lead to the complete elimination of some important programs.

We need you. But, more importantly, California's children need you. Here, you'll find a link that will provide you with information on how to contact your legislator and sample letters you can send so they understand how important it is that First 5 continues doing what it's done for so many children, for so many years. Please pass this information on to everyone in your networks - friends, colleagues and family. Thank you.

Evelyn V. Martinez

Chief Executive Officer
First 5 LA

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